Owning an automobile is a necessary part of life for most people, and part of the experience includes having regular mechanical maintenance. Sometimes, your car will require service that’s not part of your usual maintenance schedule. To get the most out of your vehicle, it’s important to pay attention to signs that it’s time for car repair Edmonds WA. Certain signals could indicate a major problem.

Smoking

Seeing smoke coming from either the front or the back of the car likely means trouble. Smoke that comes from under the hood could possibly mean your car is overheating. If you notice smoke coming from the tailpipe, it could be caused by several different types of problems.

Stinking

Noticing strange smells while driving your car is another possible indicator you need mechanical work right away. A rotten egg or sulfur smell could mean your battery is leaking acid, and battery acid is potentially dangerous. A syrupy, sweet smell could mean your car is leaking coolant, and coolant protects your engine from serious damage.

Flashing

Being flashy might work for a supermodel, but not for the lights on your dashboard. A flashing “check engine” light indicates the motor needs immediate attention. Any warning lights on the dashboard, whether flashing or static, should be checked by a car repair specialist right away.

Thumping

Things may go bump in the night in scary movies, but you don’t want them bumping or thumping under the hood of your car. When you notice loud, unusual sounds while driving, chances are that something is wrong. Make sure to get loud noises checked quickly to avoid possible damage.

Your car is a complex machine. If you notice any one of these things going on in your vehicle, it’s best to get it checked promptly. A small issue with just one of your car’s many systems can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the line.