ALT-1 Common causes of Car Breakdown
Like every item around your house you have to take care of your car the same way; maintain it and look out for developing faults. Often a small fault can lead to total failure of the car to work properly or even at all. A fuse can stop the car totally, as can a simple broken wire, more often though the fault is with something larger and inevitably more expensive and probably more complicated. Many modern cars for example are partially or totally run by computers, a simple computer fault can stop the vehicle functioning. This also means that the faulty vehicle will almost certainly have to go to the cars dealer in order to be repaired as the computer wont be repairable by the usual people you may have used before. The companies can therefore charge you more as they have a captive market. There is in truth little you can do to prevent computer faults and you have to hope what they suffer from is simple to cure.
Common faults are ones that may be preventable if you use the manufacturers recommended servicing periods. If possible do the basics yourself or at least get a competent person to do the work for you. For example change the oil and any oil filters as often as is recommended. Failure to do so could lead to the mechanical parts the oil protects being damaged or excessively worn, this could lead to a major and expensive failure. Similarly a failure of the oil could lead to the engine in worst case scenario seizing totally, as well as the obvious engine damage it could lead to a serious accident. If the engine seizes while driving the steering and brakes could fail, this is an obviously serious problem.
Silly mistakes such as putting the wrong fuel type in the car is something that still happens, the mistake could cost thousands to repair and could leave you car-less for a long period. Similarly not doing basic things like checking tyre pressures could lead to an accident. Failure to add the right additives to the engine coolant could also lead to damage to the engine and then potential breakdown. Keeping all basics checked, maintained and in working order could save you expensive breakdowns and long periods without transport. Listen to the information you are given and listen to the sounds that your car makes and then act accordingly. Acting before it's too late could save you money and inconvenience.
Simple things like covering the car when there is ice and snow or by using your garage is one thing you can do. If you live near the sea protect you car from salt water or from the salt in the air when blown from the sea. If you leave the car at home for long periods turn the engine on and run it for a while every few days, even if you don't take the car out. All these little things can be a great help to you and to your car, they can also save you the problem of a breakdown or a failure of the car to start when you need it.
