The 5 most common car issues and how to avoid them

Many drivers believe that proper car care is only a matter of comfort or appearance. However, this is of course not the case.  Inspection and repairs of car issues is a matter of safety, reliability and economy.

A properly maintained vehicle avoids many unexpected damages, has a longer lifespan and the repair costs in case of any damage are much lower. Every day at Sokratis Samios Auto Service we see that car owners do not pay the required attention to the minor damages that appear.

As a result, these damages worsen and become more serious. It is therefore important for every driver to know the most common car issues and some tips for avoiding and managing them.

Battery

The battery is the most important part of a car’s electrical system. If it is not working properly, the car will not function properly. The vehicle will not start, the lights, sensors, audio system and power windows will have problems. But what are the reasons why a battery can fail?

Among other things, its age, the constant inactivity of the car, and extreme temperatures are capable of reducing its capacity and causing problems.

Don’t worry though, as there are some simple, practical tips that will help you keep your car battery in good condition. First, it’s important to check the voltage and its terminals, keeping them clean from corrosion. If you notice any difficulty starting or poor operation of the lights, you should visit a specialized workshop of your choice so that the necessary check can be carried out by the engineers.

If for any reason your vehicle has been idle for a long period of time, you can connect a maintenance charger to maintain the battery’s performance. However, in general, it is recommended to use the car regularly, even for short trips, to keep the battery in good condition and reduce any need for premature replacement.

Brakes

The brakes are a second point that presents damage. A part of the car with key importance for the safety of the driver and passengers, which should under no circumstances be neglected, like most car issues.

Wear on the discs or pads affects the performance of the brakes, reducing their response and that is why we must be sure at all times that they are functioning optimally. The main causes of these failures are the lack of regular maintenance, excessive use of the brakes and poor quality spare parts.

To prevent these situations, it is a good idea to have your brakes checked regularly by a car mechanic. An experienced and specialized mechanic will immediately detect any potential brake damage and, if necessary, replace the discs and pads.

How will you know that there may be a problem with the brakes? Small creaking sounds, a feeling of vibration in the pedal. Signs that should not be ignored, as with time and more frequent use, the damage can become worse. As a final tip, try to avoid driving abruptly and do not slow down unnecessarily. This way, you can increase the lifespan of your brake system.

Cooling system

Another car issue that is often observed in vehicles that come to our repairshop is engine overheating . A very serious failure that is capable of causing permanent damage and has a high repair cost. Some possible causes include a radiator leak, low coolant levels, and water pump damage. This is why it is very important to check your car’s dashboard for warning signs and any smoke or burning smells.

The steps for proper prevention are very simple in this case. Make sure to always keep the coolant levels at the right level and frequently check for possible leaks in the pipes and seals. Also, periodically clean the refrigerator and replace worn parts, if any.

Timing belt

The timing belt is a point that often faces problems. Its function is to ensure the synchronized movement of the valves and pistons. As you can understand, a possible failure of the timing belt can cause serious damage to the engine. Regular inspection and strict adherence to the manufacturer’s replacement instructions are the two things you should do first to prevent damage. In addition, make sure to drive regularly at normal speeds to reduce the stress on the belt and extend its lifespan.

Suspension system

Finally, the suspension system ensures better handling and comfort. Damage to the shock absorbers, linkages or springs can cause noises and bumps in potholes. If neglected, the vehicle’s handling is directly affected. To prevent damage to the suspension system, it is a good idea to have regular checks and follow the instructions given by your car mechanic. It is also important to be careful while driving, to avoid vibrations from potholes in the road as much as possible.

See also: Autumn car service: What should you check before the rains start in Kalamata?

Conclusion

In general, when it comes to car issues, prevention is always the best option. This way, you not only keep your vehicle in good condition by avoiding damage, but you also save money on repair costs. At Sokratis Samios Auto Service, we have the know-how, equipment and specialized personnel to carry out every preventive check and to repair every damage . With our care, your car remains safe, reliable and ready for new journeys.

Sokratis Samios Auto Service is located at 32 Nikolaou Plastiras Street , Kalamata. We are available by phone (6984597400) for emergencies even outside of opening hours, until 21:00.

📞 Book your appointment now with Sokratis Samios Auto Service, by clicking here or by phone (27210 27325, 6984597400) and via the chat on our website.