The automobile is one of the most impressive feats of engineering we as a species have come up with over the course of human history. During the last century or so, cars have revolutionised our lives and made the corners of the world accessible to us in a way that wasn’t previously possible.

That being said, we do often have a bit of a love–hate relationship with our motor vehicles. The combustion engine has become a significant cause of emissions over time and society now faces a challenge to create more environmentally responsible solutions. Not only that but most of us have faced the hassle and heartache of a breakdown at some point in our driving lives.

As with any machine, they require maintenance and repair from time to time. Whether it's due to wear and tear, poor maintenance, tough weather conditions, or simply age, there are a number of common car faults that require work at a garage.

Here are some of the most common car faults that drivers may encounter.

Engine Problems

Engine problems are among the most common car faults that get us all wringing our hands and fearful of hefty repair costs. These can range from minor issues such as a misfiring engine, to more serious problems such as a blown head gasket or a seized engine. Symptoms of engine problems may include rough idling, poor acceleration, a knocking noise, or smoke coming from the exhaust. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Transmission Problems

The transmission is responsible for shifting gears and transferring power from the engine to the wheels – basically the mechanical process that occurs whenever you hit the clutch and crank the gearstick.

Transmission problems can range from minor issues such as slipping or delayed shifting, to more serious problems such as a total transmission failure. Symptoms of transmission problems may include grinding or whining noises, difficulty shifting gears, or a burning smell coming from the transmission. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Brake Problems

Brakes are one of the most important safety features on a car. In fact, none of us would ever risk getting in a vehicle without them. So, keeping brakes working optimally is among the most important things we can do with our cars.

Brake problems can range from minor issues such as squeaking or squealing brakes, to more serious problems such as a loss of braking power. Symptoms of brake problems may include a soft or spongy brake pedal, a grinding or scraping noise when braking, or the car pulling to one side when braking. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Suspension Problems

The suspension system is responsible for providing a smooth ride and keeping the car stable on the road. Suspension problems can range from minor issues such as worn out shock absorbers, to more serious problems such as a broken spring or a bent strut.

Symptoms of suspension problems include a bouncy or unstable ride, a pulling sensation when turning, or uneven tyre wear. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to get it checked sooner rather than later. The repercussions of a failed suspension system can be severe indeed.

Electrical Problems

Modern cars have a complex electrical system that controls everything from the lights and radio to the engine and transmission. Electrical problems can range from minor issues such as a blown fuse or a dead battery, to more serious problems such as a faulty alternator or a short circuit. Symptoms of electrical problems may include dim or flickering lights, a clicking noise when turning the key, or a complete loss of power. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your electrical system inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Exhaust System Problems

The exhaust system is responsible for removing harmful gases from the engine and reducing noise. Exhaust system problems can range from minor issues such as a loose or rusted muffler, to more serious problems such as a clogged catalytic converter or a cracked exhaust manifold. Symptoms of exhaust system problems may include a loud or unusual exhaust noise, a strong smell of exhaust fumes, or reduced engine performance. In extreme circumstances you may find that rusty exhaust brackets fail and the exhaust itself drops onto the raod.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your exhaust system inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Cooling System Problems

The cooling system is responsible for keeping the engine at the correct operating temperature. Cooling system problems can range from minor issues such as a low coolant level, to more serious problems such as a leaking radiator or a faulty water pump. Symptoms of cooling system problems may include a high engine temperature gauge reading, steam coming from under the hood, or a sweet smell of coolant. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your cooling system inspected and repaired as necessary.

Flat tyres

We’ve saved the simplest but often the most irritating car problem. Get a nail through your tyre, the air escapes and your travel plans swiftly go out the window!

There’s nothing too technical about a puncture but it can mean an immediate need to stop the car and head for your nearest garage to get a replacement tyre. Of course, it is possible to patch up and repair some tyres but eventually all tyres will suffer wear, tear and an inability to retain their shape – so there comes a time when a trip to your local garage is necessary.

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