8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic


Wilkinson Auto Repair in Holly MI 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 Wilkinson Auto Repair 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 Wilkinson Auto Repair. 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 Wilkinson Auto Repair located at 605 N Saginaw St in Holly, MI or call 248-634-5730 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.


Reviews

I brought my the Chevy traverse in because I was having a lot of issues my ABS light would not allow me to turn it on and I had an engine lights on. Wilkins and help me figure out that my alignment was off and my sensor was bad and that's why my ABS light was not working and they also found out that I had numerous other codes going on with my car they were very friendly and very helpful they even told me that when my engine light came back on to bring it back and they will check the codes again to help me figure out what's going on with my car. They worked with me and give me a great price for everything they did for me. Thank you

, 08/05/2021

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I really want to thank the wonderful people at Wilkinson Auto repair for the great work they did on my car today. I was returning home to Alpena when my car broke down while driving north on I-75. My vehicle was towed to Wilkinson Auto Repair due to the proximity of where the vehicle broke down. I don't think I could have ended up in a better place! Despite it being a Friday afternoon, they quickly worked me in to their schedule. They diagnosed the problem as an alternator issue, and were able to a find replacement part quickly. They had me on the road back home within a couple of hours. Everyone working there was very kind and helpful. Thank you to all the wonderful people at Wilkinson Auto!

, 07/12/2021

Transmission leaking, called for service Thursday, and Friday was repaired. Their service is awesome, folks are very personable, price is great. Well recommended for any repair you need on autos.

, 11/10/2020

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