We are becoming more and more removed from our technology. This includes our vehicles, which makes even the simplest forms of car repair seem like learning a foreign language. Very few high schools bother with shop classes anymore and the average person wouldn’t know the radiator from the carburetor. But you don’t have to take a two year course in auto mechanics to learn some basic troubleshooting techniques. These techniques can really help you out when something goes wrong with your ordinarily dependable vehicle.
There are few things that bring a sense of dread to the belly than turning the key and hearing nothing. Of course, the first thing you try is turning the key again. Maybe more than once, before you finally have to come to terms with the fact that car repair is on your horizon. Here are the first things you should check when this situation happens to you. One of the easiest fixes is if the battery terminals are corroded with acid. This, you can spot easily and it doesn’t take anything to clean them off. Sometimes this actually works and will return your vehicle to life. If not, the battery itself may be dead. Try the headlights. If they don’t come on, or if they are very weak, this is a sure sign the battery is dead and needs to be replaced or recharged.
Now, let’s say you turn that key and you hear something. The engine is trying its best, but it just won’t start. It is tempting to keep trying, but this can kill your battery, which should be in good condition if this is the problem you’re having. This type of problem usually means the engine is not getting enough fuel. It could be that you have no gas — never overlook the simplest solution! Or it could be a problem with your fuel filter or your injectors. If you know enough about what is going on under the hood, check out these possible culprits. Otherwise, take it in to a competent shop.
Car repair doesn’t have to be such a foreign concept, even with the advanced vehicles we drive today. With a little bit of learning at a time, you can troubleshoot and even fix many of the problems we deal with when it comes to our transportation. If learning the ropes isn’t for you, try and find a good, honest mechanic who will treat you fairly and give you the straight talk when it comes to whatever problems you are having with your vehicle.
