Reasons Your Vehicle May Need Service

If your car starts to show signs of trouble, you could always just ignore it -- but that's probably not the smartest decision. That's because small problems that have mild symptoms can quickly get worse until your car is no longer safe to drive, or simply won't start. Instead, if you get attention from the pros at the Capitol Subaru service department right away, we can help you keep your car running its best. And help you avoid a costly repair bill, too. Below are the six warning signs your vehicle has a problem that needs the attention of a trained Subaru technician.

Dashboard Check Engine Light

6. Check Engine Light

On modern Subaru vehicles, the engine, transmission, exhaust and other systems are all monitored by computer. Sensors detect things like airflow, fuel consumption and more to check that everything is running smoothly. If a sensor detects something isn't running optimally, it will illuminate the check engine light in the dashboard. On modern cars, the check engine light doesn't always indicate engine problems. It can mean something is wrong with the transmission or fuel system too. Even something as simple as a loose, cracked or missing gas cap can cause a pressure irregularity in the fuel tank that triggers a check engine light. When this light comes on, have an expert take a look right away. This ensures we can make necessary repairs before more damage can develop on your ride.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

5. Other Warning Lights

Other common warning lights on most every modern car include warnings for the engine temperature and oil pressure. If the engine gets too hot or there isn't enough oil pressure, the engine could quickly suffer major damage! When you see lights like these, be sure to pull the vehicle over as soon as it is safe to do so. This can prevent the development of severe damage from overheating or a lack of lubrication.

4. New, Unusual Smells & Odors

You're probably familiar with the smell of gasoline from waiting around at filling stations, but your car should never smell like gas as you drive. If it does, it can indicate engine trouble, a leaking gasket or even a leaking fuel line. Since fuel is a dangerous chemical, you should get this problem addressed right away! Other smells include something that smells like burning rubber or wood, which can come from tires or brakes that need to be replaced. Engine coolant is also vital, and you might smell coolant if the vehicle has a coolant leak. Also called antifreeze, coolant typically has a sweet, syrupy scent. A new odor coming from your car could be a sign that something's gone wrong under the hood.

Car Pulled Over By The Side Of The Road

3. Squeaking, Squealing, Clunking Or Knocking Noises

A new noise coming from your car can also be cause for concern. Clunking or squeaking noises coming from worn suspension and steering parts, knocking or pinging noises from the engine or any other unusual sound could be a sign that repairs are needed. Such noises are often accompanied by other symptoms, particularly this next one.

2. Vibrating, Shaking Or An Uncomfortable Ride

If your suspension or steering has a worn-out linkage or bushing, it can cause your vehicle to shudder and shake as you drive. Similar shaking can also be caused by wheels that are out of balance, brake discs that are warped or even engine mounts that are worn out. This symptom is more than just annoying. It could potentially be dangerous, affecting your ability to safely and easily control the vehicle.

1. Visible Tailpipe Smoke

Unless it's particularly cold out, and the engine is still warming up, you shouldn't be able to actually see the emissions coming out of the vehicle's tailpipe. If you can, it's often a sign of engine trouble. For example, white smoke leaving the tailpipe could be caused by an engine that's burning coolant in the combustion cylinders, often caused by a leaking head gasket. Dark smoke coming from the exhaust can be caused by a car that's burning oil in the cylinders or running too rich. All of these issues will need to be checked out by a trained technician, since they can be signs of severe engine damage.

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Capitol Subaru of Salem

920 Auto Group Ave NE
Directions Salem, OR 97301

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