Car malfunctions that are most often overlooked

A car is a complex mechanism that wears out over time and therefore needs regular inspection and maintenance. Unfortunately, many drivers don’t always pay attention to the first signs of malfunctions, which can lead to more serious problems and even accidents. Let’s take a look at the most common malfunction symptoms that are often overlooked. 

 Signs of malfunctions and their consequences

Problems with the brake system. A soft brake pedal and reduced braking performance indicate a brake fluid leak.  Squeaking, vibration during braking or increased stopping distance are clear signs of pad wear. Braking vibration can also indicate disc wear. 

Ignoring the signs of brake system malfunctions can lead to complete brake failure and a possible accident, especially in extreme situations.

Clutch problems. Noise when disengaging the clutch, heavy clutch pedal travel, slipping when accelerating or climbing, jerking when changing gears, increased noise or vibration when depressing the clutch pedal – all of these are indications of a clutch problem. I remember a time when I was accelerating sharply, the clutch on my SAAB 9-5 started to slip. At the car service, it turned out that the friction pads had worn out. 

Ignoring clutch problems can lead to gearbox failure, complete clutch failure and prevent the vehicle from moving. 

Malfunctions of the exhaust system.Changes in the sound of the exhaust, the appearance of extraneous noise, the smell of burning or sulphur may indicate a malfunction of the catalytic converter or other elements of the exhaust system. A discoloured exhaust gas is also an indication of a malfunctioning exhaust system and worn piston rings. Ignoring these faults can result in carbon monoxide poisoning and poor vehicle performance.

Fluid leakage. A loss of brake fluid, coolant or engine oil can be unnoticeable, especially if it is a slow leak. This can lead to serious brake, cooling and engine problems over time.

Steering problems and tyre wear. Steering wheel play, knocking when cornering, uneven tyre wear, sidewall blisters or tyre cuts can lead to loss of control.

Suspension malfunctions. Knocking, crunching, squeaking or instability when driving on uneven roads, poor handling, uneven tyre wear can be the result of suspension problems that usually develop gradually and can go unnoticed for a long time. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to rapid wear and tear on suspension components and an increased risk of an accident. 

Electrical problems. Unstable electrical functioning, such as light bulbs burning out, malfunctioning sensors, windscreen wipers or air conditioning, can be the first signs of more serious problems with the vehicle’s electrical system. 

How to avoid unpleasant surprises?

To avoid unexpected breakdowns, it is recommended that you have your vehicle regularly serviced, pay attention to any changes in its operation and contact a specialist at the slightest suspicion. Do not ignore even minor changes in the car’s behaviour, as they may indicate problems. 

Timely detection and elimination of malfunctions will help to avoid serious problems, maintain the safety and reliability of your vehicle and save money on expensive repairs.