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Article: Automobiles - Car Repair 101
By Simon
Harris
The more you notice about your
vehicle, the more likely you'll be able to head off repair problems.
Yep- even if you're mechanically challenged. You can detect many
common vehicle problems by using your eyes and nose.
“See No Evil”
Is there a little stain or a drop of fluid under your
vehicle? It may mean absolutely nothing. But you do want to check
the wet spots immediately - just to make sure.
What color is
the fluid under your car? Yellowish green, pretty blue or neon
orange colors indicate an overheated engine or an antifreeze leak
caused by a bad hose, water pump or leaking radiator. Not good. I
remember the yellowish green ooze from my Chevette as the tow truck
took it away to its final resting place. Get to a repair shop while
you still can!
A dark brown or black oily fluid means the
engine is leaking oil. A bad seal or gasket could cause the leak.
This is how my first car met its demise.
A red oily looking
spot indicates a transmission or power-steering fluid leak. Also,
not good.
A puddle of clear water usually isn't a cause for
concern. It may be normal condensation from your vehicle's air
conditioner. Whew!
“Smell no Evil”
Take a whiff, and
you may detect your vehicle's problem.
Do you smell burned
toast? This odor often signals an electrical short and burning
insulation. Have someone come look at your car. Don't drive it
anywhere until the problem is diagnosed.
How about the smell
of rotten eggs? This usually indicates a problem in the catalytic
converter. Get to a repair shop! Pheee-yew!
A thick sharp
odor usually means burning oil. Look for the sign of a leak. This
problem needs to be addressed immediately if having transportation
is important to you. You may also notice a bluish smoke coming from
your vehicle. Ask me how I know. Ahh… memories.
The smell of
gas after a failed start may mean the engine is flooded. Wait a few
minutes and try again. If the odor continues, there may be a leak in
the fuel system - a potentially dangerous problem that needs
immediate attention.
A chemical odor may mean overheated
brakes or clutch. Check the parking brake. Stop and let the brakes
cool after repeated hard braking. Light smoke coming from a wheel
indicates a stuck brake. Call a tow truck.
Do you notice a
sweet odor? This may indicate a coolant leak. Watch your temperature
gauge and warning light and drive to a repair shop. Now, if you see
steam from under the hood, stop and pull over. If you keep driving
an overheated vehicle, your engine will be seriously damaged. Call a
tow truck.
The basic rule of smell is that if you do notice
an unusual odor - get to a mechanic or get one to come to you.
Pretty simple!
A little extra attention to what’s coming out
of your car or truck could save you the cost of a new vehicle
payment! Keep those eyes and that nose on the job!
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