Common Car Breakdowns and Solutions

🔧 What is the most common cause of engine failure?

• Dead battery or loose connections: Insufficient battery power can prevent the starter motor from turning the engine; loose or corroded terminals can cause poor current transmission, leading to no response when attempting to start the engine.
• Ignition system failure: Carbon buildup or aging spark plugs can reduce ignition efficiency, while a damaged ignition coil may prevent sparks from being generated, leading to difficult starts or stalling during operation.
• Air intake system leaks or clogged air filter: If there is a leak in the intake system, the air-to-fuel ratio entering the cylinders will be abnormal, causing a lean or rich mixture; a clogged air filter can restrict airflow, reducing combustion efficiency.
• Fuel injection system failure: A clogged fuel injector will prevent proper fuel atomization, leading to incomplete combustion, manifesting as reduced power, increased fuel consumption, or even engine shaking.
• Fuel pump failure or fuel depletion: Insufficient fuel pump pressure will prevent stable fuel delivery to the injectors. If the fuel tank is low or the fuel pump fails completely, the engine will not start.
• Severe engine carbon buildup: Over time, carbon can accumulate on intake valves, fuel injectors, combustion chambers, and piston tops, affecting airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to increased fuel consumption and reduced power.
• Loose or worn belts: Slipping belts can impact the normal operation of the engine timing system, alternator, water pump, and other components, potentially causing engine noises, overheating, or even stalling.
• Internal engine part wear: Worn cylinder walls or piston rings can reduce the compression ratio, causing difficulty starting and reduced power, and may lead to excessive oil consumption.

• Check the battery charge and confirm battery life
  If the battery is low, try jump-starting. If the battery is aged or unable to hold batter level, it should be replaced promptly.
• Check the spark plugs and ignition coils
  Use a spark plug tester to check for damage or severe carbon buildup. If found, clean or replace them as necessary.
• Ensure sufficient fuel and check the fuel pump
  Regularly use fuel additives to clear carbon buildup and ensure the fuel pump is functioning properly, providing a stable fuel supply.
• Clear engine carbon buildup
  Use professional equipment like walnut shell blasting machines or dry ice blasting machines to improve combustion efficiency and power output.
• Check the intake system and replace the air filter
  Ensure smooth airflow to prevent the air-fuel mixture from being too rich or too lean, which could affect engine performance.
• Clean the fuel injectors
  Use a dedicated fuel injector cleaning machine to ensure proper fuel spray, maintain smooth fuel flow, and improve combustion efficiency.
• Check and replace loose or aged belts
  Ensure proper operation of engine components, preventing strange noises or damage to other parts.

🔧 What is the most common cause of brake failure?

• Severe brake pad wear: Overly thin brake pads lead to reduced friction, longer stopping distances, and, in severe cases, damage to the brake discs, resulting in higher repair costs.
• Brake disc deformation or wear: If the brake discs are exposed to high temperatures or uneven wear over time, they may cause vibrations or unusual noises during braking, affecting braking stability. Minor wear can be fixed through resurfacing, but severe deformation or excessive thinning requires replacement.
• Low or aged brake fluid: Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, causing insufficient braking pressure, soft brakes, and even air locks at high temperatures, leading to brake failure.
• Brake line leakage or air intake: If the brake lines leak or air enters, hydraulic transmission is affected, and the brake pedal becomes unresponsive, sometimes reaching the floor without any braking effect.
• Brake booster system failure: Faulty vacuum boosters or vacuum lines can make the brake pedal stiff, requiring more foot pressure to brake, which increases driving risks.

🔧 What is the most common cause of car AC failure?

• Clogged or dirty air conditioning filter: Excessive dust accumulation on the filter can obstruct airflow, significantly reducing the air volume. Meanwhile, dust, pollen, and other impurities can enter the cabin, affecting air quality.
• Dust accumulation or bacterial growth in the evaporator and ducts: A long-term damp environment can lead to mold and bacterial growth in the evaporator and air ducts, causing unpleasant odors and potentially impacting health.
• Insufficient refrigerant or leakage: Low refrigerant levels reduce the circulation pressure of the coolant, weakening the cooling performance. If there’s a leak, the compressor may not function properly.
• Compressor or condenser failure: A damaged compressor will prevent the refrigerant from being compressed and circulated, while a blocked or poorly ventilated condenser will reduce cooling efficiency.

🔧 What is the most common cause of electrical problems in cars?

• Damaged bulbs or motors:Dim, flickering, or completely non-functional lighting; windows that don’t lift properly, move slowly, or produce unusual noises.
• Faulty switches or relays: Buttons with no response, intermittent functionality, or multiple circuits not working simultaneously.
• Blown fuses: Complete failure of the corresponding circuit, such as the cigarette lighter, audio system, or a specific set of lights not working.
• Poor or aged wiring connections: Intermittent operation of electrical components, flickering, tripping circuits, or sudden failure of a function; these issues become more apparent when exposed to moisture or vibration.
• Low battery or alternator failure: Weak or no starting power, dim lights, battery warning lights on the dashboard, or occasional electrical anomalies.

🔧 What is the most common problem in suspension systems?

• Worn or loose suspension components: Unusual knocking or squeaking sounds while driving, unstable steering, and poor road feel. Over time, this can cause additional wear on other components.
• Improper wheel alignment: If the steering wheel sits off-center, the vehicle pulls to one side, or you need to make continuous steering adjustments while driving straight, address the issue promptly. Uneven tire wear, such as inside or outside edge wear, also indicates a problem that requires attention.
• Damaged shock absorbers: Excessive bouncing over speed bumps or potholes, noticeable body roll, insufficient support during turns, and front-end dipping during braking. This leads to reduced driving stability and passenger comfort.
• Uneven tire pressure or suspension load distribution: Increased local or overall tire wear, such as one side with more wear, poor straight-line stability, increased fuel consumption, and potential vibrations or noises.

👉 Helpful Tips

1. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential measures for preventing vehicle breakdowns.
2. Seek professional help: For serious car issues, consult professionals or take your vehicle to a specialized repair shop. This will ensure driving safety.
3. Be mindful of driving habits: Avoid rapid acceleration, harsh braking, or prolonged overloading to reduce wear and tear on the vehicle and minimize the risk of breakdowns.
4. Address minor issues promptly: Unresolved small problems can lead to bigger issues. If you notice any abnormalities, have them checked and repaired as soon as possible.
5. Pay attention to warning lights: If any abnormal indicators appear on the dashboard, investigate the cause immediately to avoid potential safety risks.