8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic


Triple A Automotive in Clovis, CA 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 Triple A Automotive 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 Triple A Automotive. 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 Triple A Automotive located at 972 Barstow Ave Suite B in Clovis, CA or call 559-299-9300 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.


Partners

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What our clients are saying about us

We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!

I found the service was honest, professional, and fair. This place will be my go-to auto repair shop for services in the future. quotes-image
, 09/11/2024
reviewiconDomestic Cars & Trucks, near Clovis, California
Doug and Triple A Automotive are awesome! As my wife and I were driving home to Los Angeles from Yosemite with our trailer in tow, my truck had a major breakdown. We were in Coarsegold on a Friday afternoon, and most auto shops couldn’t even look at the car for at least a week. As we were waiting for a tow truck, one of my wife’s friends recommended that we try Doug and Triple A Automotive. I called Doug, told him the situation, and he said that he couldn’t look at it until Monday morning but that I should bring it in. On Monday morning, I had the truck towed to his shop and left it there for Doug to work his magic. It wasn’t an easy fix, but the entire time Doug was always communicating with me and letting me know what they were going to do to get my truck back on the road. It took a few weeks, but that was mainly due to issues with parts. I finally got my truck back, drove it back to L.A., and even took another long road-trip with it this past weekend and it is as good as it ever was. I have a local mechanic that I trust and have been going to for years in Los Angeles. Now I have another mechanic that I trust in Clovis! If I lived closer, Doug and Triple A Automotive would be my go-to. Communication was awesome throughout and Doug was honest and forthright with his estimates and what they planned on doing to get my truck back on the road. Highly recommended!quotes-image
, 09/03/2024
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