5 ways to find faults in your car

Is your car misbehaving? Acting strange? Then it’s time to get to the bottom of it with this quick checklist of five alternative ways to find the fault in your car!

There are many times when our cars may have unusual problems, quirks, or complaints. But of course it’s important to judge when these might be unsafe or an indication of something seriously wrong. In these cases, be sure to take your car to a reputable garage for an expert opinion.

But otherwise, if you’re interested in solving a minor problem yourself, improving your driving experience and general knowledge of your car, then the five tips below are a great starting point.

1. Keep a record

Problems with our car can be subtle or insignificant at first. It can be hard to keep track of or understand what triggers and relieves them without paying close attention first. That’s why it’s important to start keeping track at the first sign of trouble.

This can include taking note of any unusual sounds, sights, or burning smells, for example, as well as when they happen and what seems to trigger them. It could be that you experience a problem when accelerating, for example, or after a particular type of weather.

Problems with the brakes or braking should be taken directly to an expert or a workshop to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers. But if the car is running optimally, then start keeping your own records.

After a few units or days, you may be able to see a pattern that gives you a strong indication of what is causing, or exacerbating, the problem.

2. Do your own research

Troubleshooting and troubleshooting can be fun and rewarding if done sensibly. After noticing and keeping track of your problem, it may be a good time to do your own investigation.

A good place to start is with the manual for the car itself. This can often include details that we may first miss, like the meaning of certain warning lights on the dashboard, for example, or other issues to watch out for.

The manufacturer’s website can also be helpful, as can general car maintenance and troubleshooting guides. It may not be as quick as simply typing your problem into an online search engine, but it will get you answers more specific to your type of car and save you time checking sites that may not be relevant.

3. Ask online

While filtering information online can be a bit overwhelming, the advantage it has over printed information is that it can be easily updated. Researching or asking about your problem online is sure to get you the most up-to-date answers, especially if you use the manufacturer’s website or an expert forum.

The questions can be both broad and specific, from the longest range in an electric vehicle to how to change a tire yourself, or even what the future of driving will look like.

When searching for the answer to a detailed problem or question, be as specific as possible; this will help ensure that you are not bombarded with general information. Be astute with reputable sources, trusting only reputable websites, and if in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your garage.

So, you can continue with tip number 4!

4. Consult an expert

For many drivers, the easiest and most effective way to fix a problem with their car is to take it directly to an expert.

Whether your problem is big or small, the most reputable shops will be able to provide you with answers not only about the cause of the problem, but also how to handle or correct it. If this requires specialist parts, repairs or maintenance, they can give you a quote and advise you on the best way to proceed.

Through reading and research, you can become more informed and capable, but industry experts are always there to help you too.

5. Get technical!

Whether at home or at a trusted garage, one of the most sophisticated ways to solve a problem with your car is to use specialist or troubleshooting software. The latest diagnostic tools and equipment can read and interpret trouble codes from a variety of car makes and models.

Once this has been correctly identified, you can create a specific strategy and course of action to get back on the road.