Have you ever been halfway through a road trip when your car suddenly gives up on you? It’s frustrating—but you’re not alone. Breakdowns and unexpected issues have a habit of showing up when you least expect them, but knowing how to handle the most common car problems can save you time, stress, and a lot of money.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 5 most common car problems drivers face and explain how to fix them quickly and safely. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned motorist, these tips will help keep your vehicle running smoothly.
1. Engine Overheating: Causes and Quick Fixes
When your engine overheats, it’s a sign that something’s stopping it from cooling itself properly. Left unchecked, it can lead to serious damage.
Common causes:
- Low coolant level
- Clogged radiator
- Faulty thermostat
- Broken water pump
What to do:
- Turn off the air conditioning and turn the heater on to help draw heat away from the engine
- Pull over safely and check the coolant level in the expansion tank
- If it’s low, top it up with coolant or water if that’s all you’ve got
- If the temperature keeps climbing, call a mechanic—it could be something more serious
For more insights on how to deal with car engine problems, check out our blog on ‘Common Car Engine Problems and Easy Fixes.’
2. Dead Battery: How to Jumpstart Your Car
A flat battery is one of the most common car problems that can prevent a car from starting. Thankfully, it’s also one of the easiest problems to fix.
Common causes:
- Headlights or interior lights left on
- Lack of regular use
- Cold weather affects battery performance
How to fix it:
- Use jump leads and a second vehicle with a working battery.
- Connect the red lead to the positive terminal and the black lead to the negative.
- Start the working car, wait a few minutes, then try starting your own.
- Once it starts, let it run for at least 15 minutes to recharge the battery.
When to replace it: Most car batteries last 3–5 years. If yours keeps going flat, it’s probably time for a new one.
3. Flat Tyres: Causes and What to Do
A flat tyre can bring your journey to a halt fast. The good news is, in most cases, it’s fixable.
Common causes:
- Punctures from nails or other sharp debris
- Low tyre pressure over time
- Worn-out tread
What to do:
- If you’ve got a tyre pump or inflator, reinflate the tyre to the correct pressure
- Use a tyre repair kit if the damage is small and you’re confident using one
- Fit your spare wheel if the damage is too much for a quick fix
- Visit a garage to check if it needs repair or replacement
Learn how to take care of your tyres so they last longer and save you from scary surprises in our blog, ‘7 Tyre Maintenance Tips to Help You Roll Through Summer.’
4. Engine Warning Light: What It Means and What to Check
It’s never a good feeling when the engine warning light pops up. While it can mean something serious, sometimes the fix is simple.
Possible causes:
- Loose fuel cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Misfiring engine
- Catalytic converter issues
What to do:
- First, check the fuel cap. If it’s loose, tighten it and see if the light goes out after a few miles
- Check your oil levels—low oil can trigger the light
- Use an OBD-II scanner to read the fault code if you have one, or pop into a garage
- If the light is flashing, stop driving and call for assistance—it could indicate a serious engine issue
5. Faulty Brakes: Warning Signs and What to Do
Your brakes are one of your car’s most important safety features, so any issues should be taken seriously.
Warning signs:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Spongy or soft brake pedal
- Car pulling to one side
- Brake warning light illuminated
What to do:
- Check the brake fluid level and top it up if it’s low.
- Inspect brake pads—if they look thin, it’s time to replace them.
- If you’re unsure, book a brake inspection with a trusted mechanic.
When to act: Don’t delay. If you notice anything unusual with your brakes, get them checked straight away.
What to Keep in Your Car – Just in Case
It’s always good to be prepared. Keep these essentials in your boot to stay ready for roadside emergencies:
- Jumper cables
- Tyre inflator or pump
- Spare wheel and jack
- Coolant
- Emergency toolkit
- Contact number for roadside assistance
For more tips on car maintenance, read our blog, ‘5 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do at Home.’
Last Stop: Simply Motoring
Most common car problems don’t need to become major headaches. A bit of knowledge and preparation can make all the difference. And if something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it—get it checked before it gets worse.
At Simply Motoring, we’re here to help with everything from battery checks to full diagnostics and repairs. If you’re having common car problems or something else, give us a call or pop in, and we’ll get you back on the road in no time.
FAQs
How often should I replace my car battery?
Car batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years. However, factors like climate, driving habits, and electronic demands can affect their lifespan. Continuously monitor your battery’s health and replace it if necessary.
How do I know if my brakes need replacing?
Signs your brakes need attention include squealing or grinding noises, a vibrating brake pedal, the car pulling to one side when braking, or a brake warning light. If you notice any of these signs, have your brakes checked by a professional.
How can I prevent my car from overheating?
Regularly check your coolant level, ensure your radiator fan works correctly, and have your cooling system serviced regularly. If your car continues to overheat, it may have a more severe issue that requires professional attention.