4 Car Repairs That You Should Never Put Off
Just as having automobile insurance is a necessity, so is taking care of your vehicle to keep it running properly. Your insurer will work with you to make repairs in case of an accident. And your outlay in such an event will depend on how much car insurance deductible is written into your policy. But there are some mechanical issues not covered by auto insurance that under certain circumstances may play a role in causing an accident. Be aware of your responsibilities as a car owner. They include maintaining your insured vehicle in a manner that not only keeps it running smoothly, but also assures that built-in safety features operate as designed.
Something as simple as nonworking taillights can create a considerable expense. An insurance company, as is written into your policy, will cover liability expenses if you are found to be at fault in an accident. Proper maintenance could prevent having to file such a claim. But if it does happen, you might have to debate with the insurer about whether your premiums should go up. Automobile insurance rates are based largely on the insured's driving record. And they can be adjusted according to what the insurance company feels might be a careless driving pattern.
A shaking car is not going to come apart at the seams, although it may feel that way. Improper wheel alignment and/or wheel balancing is the likely cause. It's important to quickly address this problem. The constant shaking, which in some cases can be severe, isn't doing any favors to your car's undercarriage, including the tie rods that control turns. The sudden breakdown of a tie rod on a high-speed freeway can be fatal. Don't leave such an issue to chance.
Brakes feel mushy? Do they squeal when called on to stop your vehicle? In either case, get to a qualified brake specialist and have them fixed. Have mechanics give your brakes a thorough examination. Worn brake pads and leaky brake fluid demand immediate attention. There's nothing here that affects your car insurance deductible. But driving without good brakes is just asking for an accident that could bring your deductible into play.
A simple oil change means a great deal to your car. Most people abide by the 3,000 mile oil change recommendation that's been the rule of thumb for a long time. Some cars can go further between oil changes. But it's perhaps wiser to stick with the old standard. Impurities don't realize they are supposed to hold off until you get time to change the oil. Don't let them accumulate and clog the engine's efficiency.
