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- Fixes
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- Vehicle Symptoms
- What Are Common Car Failure Searches?
- What Do My Dashboard Warning Lights Mean?
- Why Does My Car Drive Weird?
- Why Does My Car Make Noises?
- Why Does my Car smell?
- Symptoms Without Summary
- Car Leaking Coolant
- AC Isn't Cooling
- AC Blowing Hot Air
- Shaking While Driving
- Overheating AC
- AC Smells Like Vinegar
- Heater Not Working
- Windshield Wipers Don't Work
- Car Leaking Water
- Car Leaking Red Fluid
- Car Battery Leaking
- AC Only Work Sometimes
- Shaking While Idle
- Shaking At High Speeds
- Evap System Leak
- Shaking While Braking At High Speeds
- Shaking When Stopped
- Shaking When Accelerating
- Radiator Leaking
- Pink Fluid Leaking
- Car Leaking Oil
- AC Not Working.
- Car Leaking Gas
- Power Steering Fluid Leak
- Bad Brake Caliper
Test Suspension To Diagnose
In cars, the ball joint is an essential structural element that connects the suspension arm to the wheel hub, allowing the front wheels to turn while keeping the wheel in a vertical position relative to the horizontal axis at all turning angles. As a rule, in modern cars, ball joints are not repaired but simply replaced. The part is structurally designed as a joint connection, and manufacturers produce the ball joint as a separate piece or integrated with the suspension arm. Depending on this, the work required to replace the ball joint varies. The ball joint can be replaced either as a unit with the arm or separately.
Replacing a ball joint is an extremely common procedure in auto service because it falls under the category of parts subject to intensive use while the vehicle is in motion. It is recommended to replace the ball joints on both sides simultaneously, as replacing one side only will accelerate the wear of the ball joint on the other side.
During the diagnosis of ball joints in certified auto service centers, a comprehensive check of the condition of other parts like shock absorbers, bushings, steering tie rod ends, CV joints, bearings, as well as drums, disks, hoses, and brake pads is also conducted. Replacing the ball joint can solve a serious problem with your car. It is crucial to quickly conduct a diagnostic test of the suspension and steering systems. If not done in a timely manner, this malfunction could lead to uneven tire wear on both the front and rear axles, and also premature wear and failure of all suspension and steering system components.
A malfunctioning ball joint can become a serious problem while driving. One must never allow the ball joints to deteriorate and delay repairs. After replacing the ball joint, "autotechiq" recommends carrying out a wheel alignment procedure. Correct adjustment of wheel angles affects the car's handling and, consequently, driving safety.
When driving to the auto repair shop, avoid making sharp steering turns, driving on uneven roads, and abrupt braking.
Your go-to shop might propose a solution that includes any of the fixes above — or a different one.
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Burning Rubber Smell
The most common reason for a car making a burning rubber smell is because of a serpentine belt that slipped. The slipped belt commonly starts touching a hot component, and since it's made of rubber, it causes a burning rubber smell.
- Overheating internal components: Overheating internal components can cause a burning rubber smell due to the breakdown of rubber hoses and belts. When the engine or other components become too hot, it can cause rubber hoses and belts to deteriorate, releasing a strong odor.
- Slipping serpentine belt: A slipping serpentine belt can cause a burning rubber smell in a car due to friction and overheating. If the belt is loose, and slips, it can generate heat and friction, leading to a burning rubber smell as the belt deteriorates.
- Failed tensioner: A failed tensioner can cause a burning rubber smell in a car due to the increased friction and heat generated by a loose or misaligned serpentine belt. The tensioner maintains the proper tension of the serpentine belt, if it fails, it'll generate extra friction, causing the burning smell.
- Bent suspension components: Bent suspension components can cause a burning rubber smell in a car due to the misalignment and increased friction between the tires and the road. This can lead to a burning rubber smell as the tires deteriorate.
- Friction on the timing cover: Friction on the timing cover can cause a burning rubber smell in a car due to the rubbing of the timing belt or chain against the cover. This friction can generate heat and cause the belt or chain to deteriorate, emitting a burning rubber smell.
- Faulty drive shaft center support bearing: The drive shaft center support bearing supports the drive shaft in its housing and allows it to rotate smoothly. If the bearing is faulty, it can cause the drive shaft to vibrate or wobble, leading to friction between the drive shaft and surrounding components.
It's common to notice a burnt rubber smell coming from your car. Often, it is not tire-related; the odor might come from rubber contact with a hot engine or exhaust pipe instead. Hence, many of your car's rubber parts, such as coolant hoses, steering hoses, timing belts, and accessory drive belts, might have something to do with it.
Acting early is crucial since rubber can deteriorate under high heat and affect related parts.
Other Vehicle Symptoms
Below are just a few examples of typical Symptoms and Fixes your car might be experiencing
