First Aid For Your Car: Your Expert Guide To Common Problems & How To Fix Them | RAC

When it comes to your car, knowing how to handle common problems can save you time, money, and frustration. In this expert guide, we'll walk you through some of the most common car issues and provide you with simple solutions to fix them. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a beginner, these tips will help you become your own car mechanic!

1. Flat Tire

Dealing with a flat tire is one of the most common car problems you may face. It's important to know how to change a flat tire quickly and safely. Start by finding a safe location to park your car and engage your hazard lights. Locate your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Follow these steps to replace your flat tire:

• Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car
• Use the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire
• Mount the spare tire on the wheel bolts and hand tighten the lug nuts
• Lower the car to the ground and tighten the lug nuts using the wrench

2. Jump-Starting a Dead Battery

It's never fun to discover a dead battery, but knowing how to jump-start your car can get you back on the road quickly. Here's what you'll need:

First aid for your car - Your expert guide to common problems & how to fix them (RAC Handbook)

by Carl Collins(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8912 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	128 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

• Another running vehicle or a portable jump starter
• Jumper cables

Follow these steps to jump-start your car:

• Position both cars close together
• Attach the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery
• Attach the other end of the positive cable to the positive terminal of the working battery
• Attach the negative (black) cable to the negative terminal of the working battery
• Attach the other end of the negative cable to an unpainted metal surface on your car
• Start the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes
• Try starting your car, and if it starts, remove the cables in reverse order

3. Overheating

An overheated engine can be a serious issue, but with the right actions, you may be able to prevent further damage. If you notice your temperature gauge rising, follow these steps:

• Pull over and turn off your engine immediately
• Wait until the engine cools down before attempting any further actions
• Check your coolant levels; if it's low, add more coolant
• If there are no visible leaks and the radiator seems fine, it may be the thermostat or a malfunctioning water pump - in this case, contact a mechanic

4. Brake Failure

Experiencing brake failure can be a terrifying situation, but staying calm and following a few steps can help you minimize potential risks:

• Pump the brakes to build up hydraulic pressure
• Downshift to lower gears to help slow down the car
• Engage your emergency brake gradually
• Look for an escape route, such as a shoulder or an open area, to bring the car to a stop
• After safely stopping the vehicle, contact a professional mechanic to inspect your brakes

5. Electrical Issues

If you're experiencing electrical issues in your vehicle, here are a few checks you can perform before seeking professional help:

• Check your fuses to ensure none are blown
• Inspect your battery connections for corrosion
• Test your battery voltage using a multimeter
• Look for loose wires or damaged cables
• If you're unable to identify the problem, it's recommended to take your car to a qualified mechanic or auto electrician

Remember, these troubleshooting steps are just a starting point and should not replace the advice of a certified mechanic. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your vehicle's maintenance and repairs.

By becoming familiar with these common car problems and their solutions, you'll gain the confidence to handle unexpected situations on the road. Empower yourself with the knowledge necessary to save time, money, and stress.

Stay tuned for more expert guides from the RAC, where we provide you with valuable driving tips, maintenance suggestions, and solutions to keep you safe on the road!

First aid for your car - Your expert guide to common problems & how to fix them (RAC Handbook)

by Carl Collins(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8912 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	128 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE