6 Common Causes for Car Breakdown

The car is a dynamic device that was invented with the purpose of transportation. It did not take time for this device to extend its arms and expand its meaning in human life. Today, a car is more than just a means of transport. Car, at some places, reflects your status in the society; at other places it has become a necessity. However, the most significant advancement of this device in terms of meaning has been the car becoming a passion. People love their cars like they love other human beings. Cars have obtained a special place in human life, whatever the reasons might be.

The most dreaded nightmare for people who love their cars is a breakdown. It can lead to trauma, and all must be done to avoid it. This article is for people who love their cars and are looking for information that informs them about the possibilities of breakdown and how to avoid them. Even though there can be uncountable reasons why your car might not be working properly, we have compiled a list of six causes of breakdowns that we have found to occur most frequently. The list has been compiled based on our years of experience, and substantial inputs from customers.

Dead battery 

A car battery is a component that provides the necessary electricity to the spark plug (which ignites the fuel inside the engine to cause combustion). It also provides energy to accessories such as lights, radios, GPRS system, and cameras. Another secondary but essential function of the battery is to absorb the extra energy emitted by the engine. We need to remember that almost 20% of car breakdowns occur due to a dead battery. They usually have a life span of 3-5 years, but if the weather conditions are extreme, the life span might shorten. To avoid getting stuck in the middle of nowhere due to a dead car battery, it is advisable that you regularly get it inspected by a technician.

There are signs that you need to look for if you want to know when your battery is not functioning properly. For example, the lights go dim and the power windows get slower. These type of signs are silent alarms that the battery can go dead anytime. Another type of usage that can lead to discharge is making short distance trips with frequent stoppages. The battery needs the car to move to charge. We advise you to charge your battery every two weeks. If you require battery charging services, you can drop by at our garage at Jackson MOT. We will not only charge your battery but also help you maintain it.

Missing keys

It is imperative to have a set of extra keys. If you don’t, you will regret it if the keys get lost. We advise you to store the spare keys at your house and office. You can get a pair of spare keys from the authorised dealer. For long-distance road trips, consider providing the extra set of keys to your co-passengers. These are the preventive measures you can take if you wish to avoid getting locked out of the car. If you are on a highway and get locked out, it would be difficult to get out of that situation. Hence, remember, “prevention is better than cure”.

Flat tyre

Tyres are as important as any other part of the car. Most people do not pay enough attention to them. However, ignoring your cars has high costs. Reports claim that numerous road accidents that happen due to tyres could have been avoided if the drivers paid enough attention to them. Make sure that the tread depth, wear, and tyre pressure is adequate. A flat tyre can be caused due to incidents like running into a sharp object, failure of the valve stem, or collision with another vehicle. Sometimes even small blunt stones can cause a flat tyre. However, there are fewer chances that of you ending up with a flat tyre if your car tyres are in good condition.

Faulty Alternator

Battery issues can also be caused due to a faulty alternator. The job of the alternator is to convert mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy that gets stored into the battery. If your battery is not charging and neither has it broken down, it means there might be an issue with the alternator. You need to visit a garage to set this right. Get the alternator inspected and replaced, if necessary. If your battery is new and there no signs of wear and tear (like corrosion), the most probable cause is a fault in the alternator.

Broken spark plug

The spark plug is responsible for ignition inside the engine. This is the part that causes internal combustion, which leads to the utilisation of the fuel. The spark plug is extremely important and crucial for the normal working of your car. It is because if the spark plug breaks down, your car will not start. The spark plug can get worn out over time and thus, one needs to make sure that it is regularly inspected and replaced, if necessary. Remember, if your spark plug is broken, there is no chance that your car can start. This can get in troublesome situations, hence to avoid it, employ regular servicing.

Starter Motor Faults

The job of a starter motor is to use the battery power to turn on the engine. It is a part of the ignition system of the car. Again, if the starter motor breaks down, your car will not start. Only regular maintenance can avoid this.

We, at Jackson MOT, specialise in car related services. Our technicians and experts have honed their skills through years of experience. They will be able to understand and rectify any issues your car might be facing or has the potential to meet. If you require, car servicing Northampton, drop by at our garage. For more information, visit our website. 

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