8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic


Keith's Automotive Center in Highland IL Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit Keith's Automotive Center to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Keith's Automotive Center. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by Keith's Automotive Center located at 601 Walnut Street in Highland, IL or call 618-654-8471 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.


Reviews

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I called Keith's Automotive after my brakes started scraping a month after having them done somewhere else. After being told my caliper was bad and a $700+ quote I called Keith's and Adam was very helpful. After they looked at it Adam let me know it seized because my break line was swollen. He was able to transfer my brake warranty for the pads and rotors and along with a caliper and hose it was still well under $400. I'm thankful for their honesty, thorougness, and professionalism. If I let the other place change my caliper I would've been back in a couple days because they didn't tell me about the brake line being swollen and who knows how much money.

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My vehicle broke down on a long road trip in some random place along I-70. I looked for a mechanic with good review to tow my vehicle to it, and I was lucky enough to find Keith's Automotive Center. They went the extra mile and lent a helping hand when I was literally stranded in their small town. They got my car into a service bay on a same-day basis and got back to me with preliminary diagnosis before close of business. They continued to troubleshoot the next morning and gave me solutions with quotes that were accurate. They worked over the next week to keep me informed as to progress, and in every way they went above and beyond to make sure that I was taken care of, even helping me get squared away while I was in town and trying to figure out how to get home while I awaited repairs. They delivered their work faster than they had quoted and faster than I'd have expected. Then because I had to come back from out of town, Adam met me outside of normal hours to return the vehicle to me. These guys are trustworthy and pros.

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We broke down on our way home from Missouri. We live in Indiana, and the first shop that popped up was Keith's. They are vary professional, and they worked half the night to get our car fixed for us. Thank you guys so much for helping us! We made it back home and our car did great! I would 100% recommend this shop to anyone! Thank you guys so much again!

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