If you drive in Edison, New Jersey, you already know the roads can be tough on your vehicle. Between the potholes on Route 1, the stop-and-go traffic near Menlo Park Mall, and those cold winter mornings that make your car act strange, there is always something going on with your car. The average American spends about $700 per year on car repairs, and Edison drivers might spend even more because of our local driving conditions.
So what are the most common car problems that people in this area deal with? And more importantly, what can you do about them? Let us break it down in simple terms.
Dead Batteries Are More Common Than You Think
This is the number one problem that catches drivers off guard. One morning you turn your key and nothing happens. Just silence. Car batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years, but Edison’s hot summers and freezing winters can shorten that lifespan by a lot.
Here are signs your battery is getting weak:
- Your car takes longer to start than it used to
- The headlights seem dimmer than normal
- You notice a weird clicking sound when you turn the key
- The battery warning light comes on your dashboard
If you experience any of these signs, do not wait until you get stranded in a parking lot somewhere. Get your battery tested at a shop that does auto repair in Edison before it dies completely. A simple test takes about five minutes and can save you from being stuck at the worst possible time.
Brake Problems That You Should Never Ignore
Your brakes are literally what keeps you and your family safe on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, brake-related issues cause about 22% of accidents where a mechanical failure was involved. That is a scary number when you think about it.
Edison has a lot of hilly areas and heavy traffic, which means your brakes work harder than you might realize. Pay attention to these warning signs:
- A squealing or grinding noise when you press the brake pedal
- Your car pulls to one side when braking
- The brake pedal feels spongy or soft
- Your steering wheel shakes when you slow down
Most brake pads need replacement every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, depending on how you drive. If you do a lot of city driving with frequent stops, your pads will wear out faster. Getting your brakes checked regularly through a trusted auto repair in Edison can prevent small issues from becoming dangerous problems.
Also read: DIY Auto Repairs You Should Never Attempt
Engine Overheating During Summer Traffic
Edison summers can get brutal, and sitting in traffic on Route 27 with the sun beating down is tough on your engine. Engines operate best between 195 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit, and when they go higher than that, you can face serious damage that costs thousands to fix.
Watch out for these overheating symptoms:
- The temperature gauge climbing into the red zone
- Steam coming from under your hood
- A sweet smell that indicates coolant leaking
- Your air conditioning blowing warm air suddenly
If your car starts overheating, pull over as soon as it is safe and let the engine cool down. Do not open your radiator cap when the engine is hot because the pressure can cause serious burns. Check your coolant levels regularly and have your cooling system inspected before summer hits full force.
Check Engine Light That Keeps Coming Back
That little orange light on your dashboard can mean many different things. Sometimes it is something simple like a loose gas cap. Other times it signals a bigger problem with your emissions system, oxygen sensors, or catalytic converter. About 10% of all cars on the road right now have a check engine light on, and many drivers just ignore it.
The problem with ignoring this light is that small issues turn into expensive repairs over time. A mechanic who specializes in auto repair in Edison can run a diagnostic scan to tell you exactly what code triggered the light and whether it needs immediate attention or can wait.
When Your Car Needs Professional Attention
Some car problems are easy fixes you can handle yourself, like topping off fluids or replacing wiper blades. But many issues require a trained technician with the right equipment. At A1st Auto Repair, we have been helping Edison drivers keep their vehicles running for years. Our team understands the specific challenges that local roads and weather conditions create for your car.
Do not wait until a small problem leaves you stranded on the side of the road. If your car has been making strange noises, driving differently, or showing warning lights, bring it in for auto repair in Edison that you can trust. Your car works hard for you every day, and it deserves proper care to keep you safe on the road.
