785-357-7770 | 4000 SW Topeka Blvd Topeka, KS 66609
8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic
Smith Brothers Transmissions in Topeka KS Is Here To Help
Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.
1. Car Experiences Stalling
Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.
If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.
2. Trouble Steering
Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.
3. Fluid Leaks
If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.
However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.
Visit Smith Brothers Transmissions to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.
4. Worn Out Brakes
Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.
Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.
5. Alignment Issues
If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.
Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.
6. Uncommon Engine Noise
Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.
7. Diagnostic Lights
This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.
However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Smith Brothers Transmissions. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.
8. Unpleasant Exhaust
Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.
Stop by Smith Brothers Transmissions located at 4000 SW Topeka Blvd in Topeka, KS or call 785-357-7770 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.
Testimonials
Taylor Phelps , 03/10/2021
Our Buick Enclave all of a sudden would not start, we were able to get it started luckily, we dropped it off with them on a whim, they diagnosed the issue for us in a great amount of time, A++. Then the replacement of diagnosed part ( Starter ) was also done quick, we had minimal down time with our vehicle, this is also our primary family vehicle as we are a family of six and our other car is a small Ford Focus, lol. But overall great service and time, would recommend, and I have recommended. Oh! Let's not forget price. The cost of diagnostic and parts and labor, was definitely under expected price. I can usually do most maintenance on my vehicles, however electrical systems are the hardest to diagnose and I did think it was the starter, but didn't want to chase gremlins, and with proximity to the transmission and lack of equipment to lift vehicle, this would have been a headache for me, and was definitely worth the price. I won't give the price. You ask why? Well, you cannot compare, diagnostic time, work time, labor intensity all changes with each vehicle, which does include the same model and year. Our vehicle had no code, yours could, sometimes even with codes, the problem seen may not really be the problem, there could be ten things causing one thing to fail when it's actually fine. So, bottom line, if you have the time and money, sure, do it yourself. However if your like most people (like me) the benefit of time and accuracy definitely make the service here worth more than I paid. I may be returning for front suspension work, I could do it, but I'd rather spend my one day off with family. Also my history with vehicles is definitely not novice, I've worked on my father's drag car, I've done most maintenance on my own vehicles and have done oil, brakes, alternator, rebuilt carbs on older cars, replaced crankshaft bearings, harmonic balance. Rebuilt the top end of my 83 AMC eagle station wagon, bored my father's 82 power ram 50, replaced most of chassis on 67 cougar (frame has rust now -_-, ) so I'm no slump when it comes to mechanics, I just value family time!