Matthew Oliver
Car repairs aren’t something anyone looks forward to. And, they can be quite costly, ranging anywhere from $20 to $20,000 based on the car and extent of repairs needed. To make matters worse, the cost of both car maintenance and subsequent repairs has increased dramatically—about 36.2% since January 2019.
That’s just one of the reasons that car maintenance is so important. In addition, it is important to know about the used car issues to look out for.
4 Common Used Car Issues
So, just what are those common used car issues? Let’s take a look at what you need to know.
- Engine Repairs
Engine problems are one of the most common issues in used cars. Watch for unusual noises like knocking or ticking, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and a persistent Check Engine light. These can be signs of underlying issues.
Potential causes include poor maintenance, infrequent oil changes, high mileage, and general wear and tear. When inspecting a used car, check the oil level and condition, and listen to the engine while idling and accelerating. Get a professional mechanic to inspect the car for you, to make sure you don’t miss anything. After all, the cost of a new engine can range from $4,000 to $7,000, depending on the car and shop, and that’s no small chunk of change.
- Transmission Issues
Transmission issues are also more common in used cars, and similar to engine repairs, they can be quite costly. Replacing an automatic transmission can run you anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000. And replacing a manual transmission is cheaper, running $1,500 to $3,000, but those costs are still pretty hefty.
Common signs of transmission issues include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears or delayed engagement, and unusual noises like grinding or whining. These problems often arise due to a lack of regular maintenance or fluid leaks causing low transmission fluid. To inspect for transmission issues, take the car for a test drive and pay attention to how it shifts. Check for transmission fluid leaks under the car and review maintenance records when purchasing a used car for peace of mind that the transmission has been properly maintained.
- Brake System Issues
Bad brakes are bad news. It’s estimated that about 22% of light vehicle accidents are related to brake failure. So, keeping a close eye on the condition of your brakes is non-negotiable.
Common brake issues to look out for include odd noises—squeaking or grinding—when braking, vibrations or pulsations when applying brakes, and longer stopping distances. Potential causes can be worn brake pads and rotors, leaking brake fluid, or air in the brake lines. To inspect, test the brakes during a drive at various speeds, check the condition of the brake pads and rotors, and inspect the brake fluid level for any leaks.
- Electrical System Issues
Last but not least, be on the lookout for electrical system issues, which can be dangerous and affect your safety on the road.
Common signs of electrical issues include malfunctioning lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals), problems with power windows and locks, and issues with the car’s battery and alternator. Potential causes can be faulty wiring and connections, or a worn-out battery or alternator. To inspect, test all electrical components during the inspection, check the battery terminals for corrosion, and use a multimeter to test the battery and alternator output.
Auto Refinance with RateWorks Can Save You Money
Paying attention to your car’s various working parts is a responsibility that comes with car ownership. By properly maintaining your car, you can prevent some of those costly repairs we talked about earlier.
But that’s not the only way to save money on your car. If you are still paying on a car loan, refinancing might be a lucrative option for you. Plus, refinancing is easy—all you need is proof of income, residence, and insurance, and information on your current vehicle and the related loan.
To get started with an auto refinance with RateWorks, request your free quote today.
