Use your 4 senses to detect potential car issues

Expert mechanics and car technicians have developed the ability to identify car problems through their sense of sight, smell, sound, and touch. Since this skill requires experience and further knowledge about automotive stuff, and most drivers or car owners cannot easily diagnose what is wrong with their vehicles.

But the ability to detect basic vehicle issues with one’s senses allows car owners to immediately take their vehicles for service or checks once they notice something different, which helps prevent bigger car problems. Drivers and car owners who are able to specify the problem can help mechanics conduct a more accurate diagnosis of the vehicle.

To help drivers and car owners detect car problems using their four senses, Bosch Automotive Philippines shared some helpful tips that will come handy in determining basic vehicle issues.

Sight

If you notice large unwiped areas on the windscreen, it means that you need to replace the wipers. A foggy windshield and windows may indicate that the cabin filter is clogged, causing poor air flow.

Sometimes, you will also notice fluid or liquid puddles underneath the car which could mean that there is a leak somewhere. The color of the fluid indicates where the leak comes from. Common colors are:

• Black or dark brown – engine oil leak
• Red or pink – transmission oil leak
• Yellow to brown – brake fluid leak
• Green or blue – coolant or anti-freeze leak
• Brown with rainbow sheen – petrol leak
• Clear and odorless – most likely condensation from the air-conditioning system

If you notice that you are consuming more fuel than usual, it could mean that the air filter is clogged, blocking proper oxygen flow into the engine. It is also important to check if there are cracks and balding on the surface of the tires to know if they are worn out and overused.

Smell

The smell of exhaust, as well as musky or damp odors inside the car, may indicate that the cabin filter is clogged and needs replacement. Meanwhile, any burning, gas, petrol, rotten egg, or unusual sweet smells could mean that there is an engine-related problem or a leak.

Sound

Wipers produce scratching noises if they need replacement. You will also hear a slower crank when starting the engine if the car battery is running low. If you hear a high-pitched metal screeching sound while braking or slowing down, it means that the brake pads are wearing out. Meanwhile, a sharp knocking sound when driving could either mean that there are loose screws on the tires or the tire cover is loose.

Touch/Feel

If you feel like there is a reduced coldness from the air-conditioning (AC), check the cabin filter as it could possibly be clogged. This could also mean that there is a problem with the AC system.

If you feel vibrations through the steering wheel while driving, it could mean that the tire alignment is off. Another indicator of the tire alignment being off is when the car tends to steer towards one side when driving. This situation could also mean that the tires are over or under inflated.

It is important to determine vehicle problems on your own as it helps in reducing the risks of accidents which are often caused by undetected car troubles.

To help you keep your vehicle safe and in good condition, Bosch offers up to 70% discount on its automotive aftermarket products at the Bosch Automotive flagship store on Shopee this Sunday, June 6.

To learn about Bosch Automotive products, log on to ap.boschaftermarket.com/ph/en and follow Bosch Automotive Philippines on Facebook.

Photos from Bosch Automotive Philippines