Signs Of Vehicle Damage
Whether you are looking to buy a vehicle, or you are just trying to make sure you are taking care of your current one, it’s important that you know what to look out for when it comes to vehicle damage. There are so many kinds of damage that you might want to look for, and it’s going to be a really good idea to make sure that you are aware of these - as well as what you can do about them. Here then are some of the common signs of vehicle damage to watch out for.
Rust
For anything that you own which is made of steel or other metals, rust is obviously not your friend. And this is certainly true for any vehicles which you might have in your possession. For that reason, it’s obviously something to watch out for when you are purchasing a vehicle too. It’s not that treating rust on cars is impossible - it’s not, and there are things that can be done - it’s just that you’d rather have one that never had rust at all. If you notice rust anywhere, at the very least it’s something to investigate.
Unusual Noises
One of the earliest indicators of vehicle damage is a change in sound. Cars have a normal rhythm, and once you’re used to it, anything out of the ordinary stands out. Grinding or squealing noises when braking often point to worn brake pads or warped rotors. Ignoring these sounds can lead to complete brake failure or damage to surrounding components. Clunking noises when driving over bumps may indicate worn suspension parts such as struts, shocks, or bushings. A whining or humming sound that increases with speed can be a sign of wheel bearing damage or tire issues. Even subtle clicking noises during turns may suggest problems with the CV joints.
Warning Lights
This one might seem obvious, but it’s still something to be aware of. Dashboard warning lights are designed to alert you to potential problems, yet many drivers ignore them if the car seems to run fine. A check engine light that stays on can signal anything from a loose gas cap to serious engine damage. Oil pressure warnings may indicate low oil levels, leaks, or a failing oil pump, all of which can cause severe engine wear if left unaddressed. Treat warning lights as early warnings rather than inconveniences.
Fluid Leaks
Again, it might seem obvious, but you shouldn’t really ignore any fluid leaks you might see under the vehicle. Whether it’s oil, fuel, water, or brake fluid, it’s bad in any case. If you start to notice damp spots under the vehicle, you should aim to troubleshoot it and get to the bottom of what it is and where it’s coming from, as soon as possible. That is going to help you to have a much better chance of looking after your vehicle overall.
Photo by DaeYeoung Ahn: https://www.pexels.com/photo/tesla-model3-27243718/
