Central Valley Towing & Automotive in Visalia, CA Is Here To Help!

It can be tough to know when your car just needs a break or when it requires the attention of a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs listed below, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Early detection and repair can help prevent more serious issues and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car stalling unexpectedly? This could signal a number of issues, like a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition problems—none of which you want to deal with while driving. If your car is struggling to accelerate, no matter how hard you press the gas pedal, don’t wait for the issue to resolve itself.

It’s best to pull over and request assistance immediately to avoid further complications and ensure your safety on the road.

2. Trouble Steering

If your steering wheel has become difficult to control or your turns are no longer smooth, it may signal a serious issue with your steering components. Low power steering fluid or other malfunctions could be the cause.

Since any issue that affects your ability to control your car can be dangerous, it's important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

3. Fluid Leaks

If you notice puddles of liquid under your vehicle, it's time to take a closer look. While water, often from air conditioning condensation, isn’t typically a concern, other fluids could be a sign of a problem.

Look out for:

  • Oil

  • Transmission fluid (red or brown)

  • Coolant (blue, yellow, or green)

  • Power steering fluid

  • Brake fluid (thick but clear)

Any of these fluids leaking from your vehicle should be inspected right away, as they’re essential to your car’s performance. Visit Central Valley Towing & Automotive to address the leak and replace the fluids before it causes further damage.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally degrade over time, but if they start losing their effectiveness or making unusual noises, it’s a sign they need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds often point to worn brake pads that should be replaced.

If you feel your brakes shaking or vibrating, this could signal problems like worn pads, issues with brake fluid, or alignment troubles. These are best handled by a professional mechanic to ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.

5. Alignment Issues

If your car's ride has become noticeably rough or shaky in recent months, it may be time for an alignment check. While repairs might seem costly, vibrations or a bumpy ride—particularly at higher speeds—are often caused by wheel alignment problems.

Even after a wheel alignment, the wheels can shift over time due to normal wear and tear or events like accidents or hitting unexpected bumps. Getting a realignment is a simple fix that professionals can handle quickly to get your vehicle back to a smooth ride.

6. Unusual Engine Noises

Your engine should run smoothly, and while it might get a little noisier over time, any sudden or unfamiliar sounds should not be ignored. If you hear grinding, popping, or growling noises while the engine is idling, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional. These sounds could indicate a serious issue that requires immediate attention.

7. Warning Lights

Modern vehicles are equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but these don't always mean there's a serious issue. Sometimes, they light up for routine checkups after reaching a certain mileage or due to a minor glitch in the car’s computer system.

That said, these lights can also signal potential engine problems. If a diagnostic light appears along with other symptoms like poor performance or unusual sounds, it’s best to bring your car to Central Valley Towing & Automotive for a checkup. Even if it's just the light bothering you, a quick visit can confirm whether there's an underlying issue.

8. Unusual Exhaust Smell or Smoke

Your exhaust system can offer valuable clues about your vehicle’s health. If you notice dark, black smoke or unpleasant odors coming from the exhaust, it may indicate a clog or damage in the filtration system. This could be related to a malfunctioning catalytic converter or other underlying issues.

Don’t wait! Bring your car in for a thorough inspection. Visit Central Valley Towing & Automotive at 777 N Burke Street in Visalia, CA, or call us at 559-734-4028 to speak with one of our skilled technicians.