5 Most Common Car Repairs That You Should Be Aware Of 

Having your own vehicle provides you with a lot of advantages. From the daily commute for work to fun weekend trips, your car is your reliable companion, offering convenience when you need it most. However, having these advantages also brings responsibilities. 

A car is like any other machine. It requires regular maintenance to remain healthy and perform at its best. Furthermore, they can break down or get damaged over time, requiring maintenance and repair. If you fail to treat these issues quickly they can result in more costly repairs down the road. 

Whether you already own a car or are eyeing one, it’s good to be in the know about the usual suspects when it comes to car troubles. Being aware not only keeps your ride safe but also ensures it stays healthy for longer. 

At In Town Automotive, we are a team of technicians experienced in all things car repair service. Every day we help countless car owners in Northampton maintain their cars to keep them in top condition. To help you become more informed and stay alert, we have listed the five most common car repair problems we see. 

Let’s check them out!

1. Replacing Oil and Oil Filters

Although something you probably don’t think about every day, oil is one of the most important components of your car engine. It keeps the engine lubricated and helps in reducing friction between different engine parts. Additionally, it enables the overall vehicle to run smoothly by keeping the engine cool. 

Oil filters in your car are there to keep the oil clean of debris and foreign particles. Over time the level of oil drops because of its constant use. Also, your oil filters become blocked leading to the accumulation of dust, debris, soot, etc into the oil. Over time, the viscosity and colour of the oil will start to change, indicating it may be time for an oil change.  

Thick or impure oil can damage your engine by overheating it. To avoid this common car repair problem, replacing the oil and oil filters at regular intervals is extremely important. 

2. Changing the Wiper Blades 

Unsurprisingly, being able to see whilst driving is very important. Your wiper blades help to keep your windscreen clear and provide an unobstructed view by keeping the windshield clean. Their role becomes crucial, especially during rain and snowfall. However, over time your wipers are going to become less effective and will need replacing.  

Whilst it is recommended to change the wipers every six months, this is completely dependent on how effectively they work and they can last much longer. If you observe they are not working as they should, get the wipers changed as soon as possible for a clear view and safe drive. 

3. Renewing the Air Filters

Your car engine converts fuel into power through combustion. Clean air is required for the combustion process. This air is drawn into the engine through the intake system. To stop foreign particles and dust from entering the engine along with the air, air filters are used. These filters act as purifiers, providing the engine with clean and filtered air. 

If your filters aren’t working effectively, particles can enter the engine leading to permanent damage or malfunction. To safeguard your engine, it’s advisable to replace the air filters annually as a part of common car repair. Moreover, regular checks can also identify if the filter needs replacement. 

4. Replacing Tyres

Your car’s tyres play an important role in making sure you are safe and comfortable during your drives. These are the only components of your car that are constantly interacting with the road. This constant friction makes them more susceptible to wear and tear compared to other car components.

The ongoing friction between the tyre and the road gradually wears away the tread of your tyres, reducing the depth. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth stands at 1.6mm, anything below is considered unsafe. And rightly so, as reduced tread depth significantly increases the chances of accidents through skidding. Therefore, we recommend changing your tyres every 6,000 miles to mitigate the risk, addressing a key aspect of common car repair problems.

5. Changing the Car Battery 

Your car’s battery acts as a catalyst for starting the engine by providing the essential spark. While the energy required for ignition replenishes as the engine runs, it’s important to acknowledge that the battery’s overall efficiency typically reduces after around five years. However, if there’s a problem with your battery, you’ll likely know much sooner.

Regularly check for signs of corrosion on the terminals of the battery. If you do notice it, either polish the terminals or replace them as needed. Seeking assistance from a garage or seeking professional guidance is recommended for addressing common car repair problems effectively.

Contact In Town Automotive to Keep Your Vehicle in Optimal Condition

As a car owner, you might come across common repair issues, sometimes only identifying them when they escalate. To stay proactive, regular servicing is crucial, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition and operates efficiently. Choosing an experienced and reliable professional for repairs and maintenance is vital.

As an award-winning Northampton garage, our technicians are well-equipped to tackle both common and uncommon car issues.  

With years of experience in fixing brakes, air conditioning, cambelts, and so much more, we will work with you to keep your vehicle in top condition, allowing you to travel safely and efficiently. 

To learn more about us, visit our services page or contact us to book an appointment today!