So you are driving and one of these events happen: check engine light flashes, maintenance reminder lights comes on, steering wheel vibrates, brakes squeal, car vibrates after stop, vehicle starts to get poor gas mileage, or oil light flashes.
Here is what these problems could mean:
A. Check engine light flashes – Engine damage or catalyst failure.
B. Maintenance reminder light – A reminder it’s time for regularly scheduled maintenance.
C. Vibrating steering wheel – Bad tire or wheel condition.
D. Brakes squeal – Time for brake replacement.
E. Car vibrates after stop – Motor mounts loose which could result in axle damage or hose leaks.
F. Poor gas mileage- Could be as simple as replacing the air filter.
G. Oil light flashes- Low on oil which could lead to engine failure. #Stranded
Do you:
A. Ignore it. It’s probably okay and not a major problem.
B. Head to the internet to diagnose it yourself!
C. Get the local automotive parts store to pull codes for free. Score!
D. Drive to your local dealership for a checkup.
E. Kick your car off cliff for insurance payments!
If you said anything other than D, you are wasting your time and money. Of course we are supposed to say that, right? But it’s the truth. Ignoring your vehicle problems can you leave stranded on the side of the road. The advice you get online might not be accurate, and you may not have the time or interest to fully understand vehicle preventative maintenance. The people at your local automotive part stores are not mechanics and just because your car hits a code, that could just be the symptom not the problem. And, kicking your car off a cliff could land you in jail for fraud…!
Always make the choice to go to your local dealership. It is equipped with factory-certified mechanics who have the knowledge, parts, and tools to deal with a wide scope of vehicle problems. You don’t want to have an “oooh baby ” experience…. You want to have a Drive Baby™ experience!
This post was co-written by Gerry James, Social Media ; Kevin Woodard, Milton Ruben Chrysler and Toyota Service director; and John Strelec, Chevrolet Technician.
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