We’re all guilty of ignoring that little flashing light on the dashboard or the weird noise coming from underneath the car. We don’t always have time to get our cars serviced properly, with it often dropping to the bottom of our to-do lists when life gets busy. But here’s the thing: your car is quietly telling you it desperately needs attention – and without it, you might find yourself without a car. Missing these signs could land you a hefty repair bill, a breakdown at the side of the road, or even a safety risk. Today, we’re looking at seven signs your car needs a service to hopefully nip any issues in the bud early.
Dashboard Warning Lights
One of the most obvious signs that your car might need a service is the dashboard lights. If your dash is lighting up like a Christmas tree with symbols you don’t recognise, it’s a good idea to book it in with a professional. Modern cars are packed with sensors, so it’s a good indicator of something not being right.
Whether it’s the check engine light, oil pressure warning, or brake system alert, never ignore a light. Even if your car seems to be driving fine, these lights can often pick up issues you wouldn’t notice until it’s too late.
Strange Noises You’ve Never Heard Before
Cars make noise – that’s normal. But when driving starts to sound like a washing machine full of bricks or a haunted house door, it’s time to pay attention. Here are some key things to listen out for:
- Grinding or squealing when you brake
- Knocking sounds from beneath the bonnet
- Hissing or clicking noises
- A high-pitched whine while accelerating
Strange sounds can point to anything from worn-out brake pads to engine issues. The earlier you catch these things, the cheaper and easier they usually are to fix. In this case, ignorance is definitely not bliss!
Unusual Smells Inside Or Around The Car
Smells can tell you a lot about what’s happening under the bonnet of your car. A burnt smell might mean overheated brakes or a slipping clutch. A sweet, syrupy smell could indicate a leak in your coolant system. If there’s a strong fuel scent, that’s a safety risk you should get checked immediately. And don’t forget the classic foul smell reminiscent of ‘something’s died in here’. That’s usually an old cabin filter in desperate need of replacing.
As you can see, there are plenty of smells to look out for! The easiest way to do this is to consult a professional – whenever you notice an odour that’s not quite right, take a look at when you last got your car serviced.
The Car’s Handling Feels Off
Unless your car is new, you’ll know how it drives when it’s at its best. So, if you notice something different, such as heavier steering, pulling to one side, or bouncing over bumps, don’t just adjust your driving style to compensate. Consider the common culprits like low tyre pressure and misaligned wheels, and book in for a service if it’s not something you can fix yourself. Good car handling isn’t just about comfort – it’s also crucial for safety.
Smoke Or Steam From Under The Bonnet
One of the hardest things to ignore on your car is smoke or steam coming from the bonnet, and for good reason! This is never a good sign, so if you see even a small amount of smoke coming from your car, make sure you book it in for a service as soon as possible.
White steam could be a sign of the engine overheating, usually because of low coolant levels or a leaky radiator. Blue or black smoke might point to burning oil or fuel system issues. Driving on smoke could do serious damage, so pull over as soon as you notice it and call for help.
Poor Fuel Economy
If you find yourself filling your car up with petrol more often than usual, but your driving habits haven’t changed, your car could be trying to tell you something. There are plenty of issues that could affect your fuel economy (when not related to your driving), including:
- Dirty air filters
- Old spark plugs
- Tyres with low pressure
- Fuel system problems
Even minor fixes, like a new air filter or correct tyre pressure, can help boost your mileage and fuel economy. Not only does this save you money, but it can also keep you from worrying about the health of your car. Booking it in for a service can quickly identify any of these issues to get your fuel economy back on track.
It’s Been Way Too Long Since Your Last Service
Last but not least, perhaps the most important reason you might need a service is if you can’t remember the last time you booked one! Most cars need a service at least once a year, or every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres, depending on the vehicle and how you drive it. Even if everything seems fine with your car, a regular service can catch potential issues early and help maintain the vehicle’s value. Plus, it gives you peace of mind – and who doesn’t need that when it comes to their car?!
Find Out How A Service Can Care For Your Car Today!
Your car is one of your most valuable possessions, and it works hard to get you where you need to go. Paying attention to these warning signs and staying on top of regular servicing isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns – it’s about protecting your safety, wallet, and time. If you want to learn more about servicing or book in for one today, check out Wayne Park car servicing. With 37 years of experience and a proven track record, there’s no better place to leave your car for its routine service.
