6 Common Causes of Car Breakdowns

Proper maintenance is necessary to keep your vehicle in the best possible condition. However, your vehicle can break down at any place and at any time. Learn about some of the main reasons why cars break down.

1. Brake Trouble

Brakes will only remain functional for a specific number of miles, depending on the vehicle model. However, some drivers don't change the brakes until it’s too late. Usually, people only notice brake problems when they hear a squealing or grinding sound from the brakes.

If you wait too late to fix the brakes, the rotors will have ground down, causing the vehicle to break down anytime. Repairing rotors is much more expensive than repairing brake pads.

2. Flat or Faulty Battery

Battery problems are usually a primary cause of vehicle breakdown. When the battery is flat, the engine will become less efficient and will turn on slowly. The vehicle takes longer than necessary to start. In some cases, battery troubles can cause the vehicle to fail to start when you turn the ignition key.

When the vehicle's battery is damaged, you will often see a red warning light on your dashboard. You must immediately find an auto mechanic to repair the battery. Sometimes, the battery is working but isn't charged. In this case, you can charge the battery overnight to give it enough power and increase its lifespan. For example, a trickle charger helps to recharge your battery slowly.

3. Alternator Faults

The alternator is one of the components of the car's charging system. It provides energy with electrical power to the ignition sound system, heating, and lights. The alternator also helps with recharging your car's battery if the engine is running. Problems with the alternator can affect the dashboard lights and cause sudden engine failure.

4. Tire Problems

Tires can burst or deflate if you drive over sharp objects like glass, rocks, or nails. Old tires can also blow out, especially if you frequently drive on bad roads. This will leave you stranded on the roadside as you try to change them. Always check the tire's condition for any signs of misalignment and wear and tear.

5. Clogged Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

The DPF is a common feature in vehicles that use diesel engines. The feature is a component of the exhaust system that redirects soot. While the diesel particulate filter can work well on its own, it does clog from time to time. This problem usually happens when you drive short distances.

One of the best ways to take care of the DPF is to run up your vehicle frequently. If you don't, you might see a warning light appearing on the dashboard. As soon as you see the warning light, drive the vehicle for an extended time to clear any clogging. You can get additional instructions about preventing DPF clogging in your car's handbook.

6. Mis-Fueling

The wrong type of fuel or an empty tank can cause a vehicle breakdown. Obviously, you will know of the lack of fuel in the vehicle by looking at the fuel gauge. However, having the wrong type of fuel in the vehicle isn't always obvious. By the time you identify the problem, it might be too late.

Using the wrong fuel grade in the vehicle usually doesn't cause problems. For example, if your vehicle is designed to use premium gas, you can still use standard gas without any major performance problems. The problem will occur if you put diesel in a vehicle designed to use gas. This can cause the vehicle to fail to start or to stop suddenly.

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