Learn to Prevent Costly Car Repairs

When it comes to minor car problems like a cracked windshield or squealing brakes, it is better to get these problems fixed early rather than waiting. This is especially the case if there is an easy fix for your minor problem.

Unfortunately, most people aren’t aware that there are cheap fixes to many issues, and they wait until the problem has escalated into a costly problem that takes days to fix. So next time you hear something funny or something appears minor, avoid the headache of potentially having to get your car towed and have your mechanic take a look at it. And if it turns out to be nothing, at least you can drive with peace-of-mind that your car isn’t going to die in the middle of the road.

Here are 4 car problems that you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Cracked Windshields
   Three months ago, a pebble hit my windshield and caused a minor crack. Instead of going to a my local mechanic, I waited and now the small 2-cm crack has spread through my entire windshield. Now, instead of it being a simple repair, my windshield will have to be replaced, a costly replacement that could have been avoided. Minor cracks in windshields can be easily fixed by a windshield repair specialist and cost on average about sixty dollars, compared to upwards of $300 for a new windshield. Also, remember to make sure the repair company guarantees their work with a warrantee.
2. Squealing Brakes
   Sometimes, squealing brakes can be a sign that your brake pads need to be changed. Although this fix costs around $100 to $200, ignoring your brakes may cause a bigger, more expensive problem such as having to replace your brake rotors, which can cost four times as much as brake pads.
3. Regular Oil Changes
   Getting your oil changed frequently (check your owner’s manual for frequency) is the easiest way to protect your car from costly repairs. Even if you don’t know how to change your own oil, you should learn how to check your oil (see Allstate’s auto maintenance video on How to Check Your Oil). Without regular oil changes, debris and sludge build up can cause your engine to fail, a repair that can cost as much as $6,000 to replace. Also, if your car is leaking oil, you should take it to a mechanic immediately because it may be an early sign of engine failure.
4. Pay Attention to Tire Wear and Tear
   Think about all those pot holes, turns and other road conditions that have put pressure on your tires (especially your front tires)! Because front tires wear quicker than rear tires, it’s important to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or when you notice uneven treading or driving repeatedly on bad roads. While you could rotate your own tires, you can also make an appointment with your local mechanic since tires rotation are not too expensive. Rotating your tires regularly can not only significantly increase the life of your tires, it can also keep you safer on the road by helping your car’s brakes work more effectively.

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