Auto Repair

A clogged oil filter can trigger the "oil warning" light on the dash since the filter is vital in maintaining oil quality and pressure. In this case, the oil probably gets a dark-colored appearance and might be at a low level; stop the car and check this with an oil dipstick. Additionally, if your vehicle is underperforming, ask for a tow ride.

Some oil filters have a bypass valve in the filter, and some manufacturers have a pressure relief valve in the oiling system. If the filter clogs up, the oil bypasses it, contaminating itself and damaging internal engine components. In this same scenario, some oil filters can come apart and lodge filter particles through the car's oilways.

If sludge and filter particles obstruct the car's oil passages, you might notice poor performance; the engine sputters when accelerating, odd noises coming from underhood, a burnt oil smell, and the yellow "check engine" light popping on the dash.

The brake caliper piston has a dust boot to remove dust and debris. It also has an o-ring that seals the fluid and acts as a return spring. If dirt or water gets in between the piston and the bore, it sticks, causing problems. Brake fluid contamination can also cause rust and debris, leading to a sticky piston. This results in excessive heat, warped rotors, and a vibrating steering wheel when braking.

Your battery powers your car's ignition, computer, lights, radio, and climate control. The alternator helps recharge the battery, and it can't keep up with the electricity needs of the car whenever any of its components wear out. This causes the battery warning light to pop on the dashboard.

If you notice dimming lights, disabled cruise control, radio issues, air condition inefficiency, or issues starting the vehicle, save this information; they're essential if you go to an auto shop later.

You may also feel the steering wheel move back and forth when you brake, and you'll notice the shaking doesn't stop when you release the brakes. Perfectly balanced tires are crucial for a smooth ride.

Manufacturers even measure tires to correct any variation in rubber before a vehicle is released for sale. Unfortunately, driving can also wear tires over time and cause them to become unbalanced. Any hit on your tires, like driving over curbs or potholes, can cause damage or premature wear. When the vehicle's tires are unbalanced, you'll feel vibrations in your steering wheel that increase in intensity when the tires spin faster.

A fuel pressure regulator might fail. The pressure sensor regulates the engine's fuel flow. So, sensors reporting the wrong pressure to the engine control computer produce poor emission control. Also, a lousy sensor in a hot engine bay can result in leaks from faulty parts. A fuel filter can clog up and stop over time, resulting in low pressure. A worn-out filter fails similarly to fuel pressure sensors. A faulty fuel pressure sensor affecting the system's operation interferes directly with exhaust gases. A failing fuel pressure sensor can increase consumption, risking car fire. Typically, code scans can provide a complete snapshot of the vehicle, reporting these types of problems.