Keeping your vehicle in good condition is essential for both safety and longevity. This includes regular MOT tests, routine servicing, and paying attention to key maintenance tasks such as oil changes, which can help diagnose minor issues before they escalate into major problems.
Most common car problems can be identified during an MOT test or a full car service. Opting for full-service car care in Maidstone ensures comprehensive maintenance and keeps you informed about potential issues, helping extend your vehicle’s life without frequent repairs.
This blog discusses some of the most common symptoms observed during inspections.
1. Brakes and Brake Pads
The braking system of any vehicle is one of the most important safety aspects of an automobile. Brakes are checked thoroughly during an MOT or car servicing in Maidstone. Over time, brake pads wear down and brake discs may become damaged, resulting in reduced braking effectiveness.
When a brake pad is too thin, it can produce a squeal, or, in extreme cases, the presence of a skinny pad will cause the brakes to fail to stop the vehicle completely.
This aspect is covered by a full car service Maidstone, where a technician inspects the entire brake system, including brake fluid levels, the condition of the discs and pads, and the functionality of the braking mechanism.
Cities with high technology provide prompt services in case any problems are flagged within the set timeframe, so replacements and repairs can be carried out earlier to prevent more serious complications that may arise later.
2. Suspension and Steering Components
Your vehicle’s suspension system is designed to provide a smooth and stable ride. It absorbs bumps and helps maintain control and handling. However, worn-out suspension components, such as shock absorbers, springs, or struts, can lead to bumpier rides and reduced vehicle control.
When components like steering racks, joints, or wheel alignment are worn or faulty, they can negatively affect handling and pose serious safety risks.
These are also areas highlighted during an MOT test, ensuring your vehicle meets safety standards before getting back on the road.
A full service in Maidstone includes thoroughly inspecting your vehicle’s suspension system. During this inspection, signs of leakage, worn joints, or rust may be detected. If any parts are damaged or worn out, we will replace them to ensure a safe and comfortable drive.
3. Battery and Electrical Systems
All a vehicle’s electrical operations are critical, from the lighting to the ignition system. When you take your vehicle in for a Maidstone car service, you will have the battery and electrical system thoroughly tested for health.
If the alternator is worn out or the battery is dead, you can be stuck with a car that won’t start. Furthermore, issues with wiring, fuses, and charging systems can all contribute to an electrical failure, resulting in flickering lights, malfunctioning air conditioning, or windows that won’t open.
A technician checks the battery’s charge capacity and the alternator’s ability to charge the battery, and then verifies the presence of loose or corroded connections.
Any defective parts are replaced to prevent further problems from developing.
4. Engine Oil and Filters
Engine oil is the engine’s lifeblood, enabling it to run smoothly without any obstruction. Replacing oil and filters regularly is an essential part of the car service in Maidstone. During an MOT or service, they check whether the oil is sufficient or in good condition.
Dirty oil, or oil that has been in use for an extended period, can cause wear and poor engine performance. Fuel efficiency will suffer, and the car engine may also contribute to failure.
Oil and filter changes at intervals according to the model of a particular car and its usage contribute to maintaining the engine’s health and longevity.
The mechanic will also inspect the source of the leak and repair it if any are found during the service.
5. Tyre Pressure Check
The safety features of a car are the tyres. They receive a thorough inspection during an MOT and full car servicing in Maidstone. You may need a tyre replaced if it has been worn, has a low tread depth, or is damaged.
Under-inflated tyres affect fuel efficiency and are more susceptible to punctures, while over-inflated tyres increase their tendency to uneven wear and adverse ride-handling effects.
Tyres are one of the top things checked during pre-MOT inspections, so maintaining pressure is more than just a fuel-saving habit — it’s an MOT requirement.
The condition of your tyres directly reflects on the safety of the road, especially in bad weather. During the car service in Maidstone, the mechanic will check the tyre pressure and adjust it to the recommended value, ensuring the tyres operate efficiently.
6. Exhaust System
An exhaust system is crucial to your car’s emissions control system. The exhaust system may exhibit corrosion over time, potentially leading to leaks and adversely affecting engine performance. The exhaust system is checked for wear, tear, corrosion, and damage during an MOT.
If an exhaust system is damaged, it may produce more harmful emissions, resulting in a failed MOT test. Alternatively, an exhaust leak may contribute to poor fuel economy, nasty smells in the cabin, and loud engine noise.
If any of these issues exist, repairs or replacements should be conducted according to the full car service in Maidstone.
7. Air Conditioning System
While air conditioning is something that most car owners take for granted, when it fails, driving becomes unbearably uncomfortable. Air conditioning refrigerant can leak or degrade, causing the system to blow warm air or fail to operate correctly.
During a regular car service in Maidstone, the performance and leakage of the air conditioning system are checked. Leaks will be repaired, refrigerant will be charged if necessary, and damaged components, such as compressors or hoses, will be replaced.
If you’ve noticed warm air or musty smells, it could be one of the early signs your car’s AC needs repair.
8. Timing Belt and Chains
The timing belt or chain is a crucial component in operating your vehicle’s engine, primarily responsible for aligning the opening and closing of the engine’s valves. If dented or broken, the timing belt or chain can cause significant damage to the engine, resulting in very costly repairs.
Timing belts are subject to replacement at regular intervals. The condition of the timing belt is thoroughly checked during a full car service in Maidstone.
If the timing belt shows signs of wear and failure, your mechanic will recommend replacing the belt to prevent further damage.
9. Windshield Wipers and Washers
Good visibility means safe driving, and the condition of your windshield wipers can significantly impact your visibility while driving in adverse weather conditions. And if your wipers are faulty, it could lead to a failed MOT test, even such a minor part can have a big impact.
Over time, the wiper blades will become cracked and frayed, resulting in streaks and reduced cleaning performance.
The wiper fluid system can also become clogged or run out of fluid. Wiper blades are inspected for wear during the Maidstone car service, and any worn parts are replaced with new ones. Simple servicing will prepare the vehicle for the weather and keep you driving with good visibility.
10. Transmission System
The transmission transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It can have many problems, from simple fluid leakage to complete transmission failure.
Some signs include difficulty switching gears, strange sounds, or slipping gears, so none should be ignored.
During an MOT test and car servicing in Maidstone, the system will be checked for signs of damage and wear.
If necessary, the transmission fluid will be replaced or topped up. Early addressing of transmission issues saves you the costs associated with repairs.
Check out our post on signs your vehicle might fail its MOT.
11. Fluid Levels and Leaks
Again, different fluids serve different purposes in a car, such as coolant, power steering, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. During full service, fluid levels are checked. If they are above or below the recommended levels, they are topped up or drained.
Any system leak, such as coolant, brake fluid, or oil, will be repaired. A leak in any of the fluids can ruin your vehicle’s systems and should be fixed first.
Conclusion
MOTs and servicing ensure that your car is safe to drive and has a prolonged lifespan. Whether you need a full service in Maidstone, interim servicing in Maidstone, or an MOT in Maidstone, addressing common car problems during these check-ups is essential. Doing so will help prevent costly repairs and ensure the smooth operation of your vehicle.
Everything from brake problems to engine health to tyre wear can be addressed if you stay on top of your car’s maintenance, avoiding future expenses. Select a reputable garage to diagnose and resolve the issues effectively and efficiently. Your vehicle will remain in good condition with regular servicing, ensuring your safety on the road and the longevity of your car.