Getting stranded in your car is a huge problem, if not because you rely on your car than also because of the repairs that become necessary. Route 20 Auto Essentials has some tips about which items are most likely to fail on your car, leaving you stranded.
Battery
Without a battery, your car isn’t going much of anywhere. If the alternator fails, the battery can keep your car going for a little while until it fails, too, and then you’re really and truly stuck. Having your battery tested periodically helps you keep up with how it’s doing.
Tires
Even one flat tire means you’re stuck. Keeping up with tire and wheel maintenance keeps your tires running for a good long while, and that’s an important goal. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated and visually inspect the tire tread now and again.
Water Pump
The water pump is what keeps coolant flowing between the radiator and the engine. If it stops working, coolant stops flowing and your engine immediately overheats. Water pumps can start to leak or even fail completely with what seems like very little warning. Again, maintenance is the best plan.
Fuel Pump
Your fuel pump is crucial, too. It’s what’s responsible for pumping fuel out of the tank and into the fuel lines and ultimately your car’s engine. When it fails, no fuel is going to move anywhere and neither is your car. Most fuel pumps can last for around 60,000 miles or so, but that doesn’t mean that you can ignore maintenance for it.
Transmission
Transmission issues are common, especially if you haul heavy items or you’re just rough on the transmission. If you drive a manual transmission, the clutch is where you’ll most likely experience the first round of trouble. Transmission failure is going to keep you grounded, so keeping an eye out for possible issues is key.
Timing Belt
Few drivers think much about the timing belt, but that one piece of rubber can absolutely leave you stranded if it fails. These can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but remember that rubber can break or fail at any time. It’s a good idea to get your timing belt at least checked if you’re close to that 50,000 mile mark.
Don’t let yourself get stuck anywhere. Route 20 Auto Essentials in Ashtabula, OH is here for you and all your maintenance and service needs. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.