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The 7 Most Common Auto Repair Issues

April 18, 2023

image of mechanic arms pulling on oil dipstick of car engine

Your vehicle is one of the most substantial purchases you’ll make in your lifetime, ranking just underneath purchasing a home. In addition to the monthly payment, you must consider the cost of maintenance and the cost of repairs. And when it comes to repairs, some are more likely than others. To help, we’ve outlined some of the top and most common auto repair issues based on our customers at ABS Unlimited Auto Repair. Let’s take a closer look at each, and don’t hesitate to reach out to ABS Unlimited Auto Repair for the best auto repair solutions. 

Failed Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor in your vehicle is an electronic probe that measures the mixture of unburned oxygen in your exhaust. The oxygen sensor transmits this information to your vehicle’s computer, so it can adjust the air-to-fuel ratio to maximize performance. However, when this important component fails, it can lead to:

  1. Reduced fuel economy, 
  2. A foul odor from your vehicle, and 
  3. Possibly reduced engine performance. 

While the oxygen sensor is reliable, it may need replacement every 50K miles. 

Faulty Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is a key part of your vehicle’s emission control system that converts potentially dangerous pollutants in your exhaust gas into safer ones before being emitted into the atmosphere. Although catalytic converter replacement is a common repair, it can be expensive. Fortunately, when you have proactive preventative maintenance, your catalytic converter can easily last the life of your vehicle. 

Brake Repair 

Your brakes are the most important safety feature of your vehicle. While most brake systems are reliable and functional, they need maintenance and proactive parts replacements. For example, brake pads and brake shoes should usually be replaced every 30,000 to 35,000 miles. However, depending on the type of brake pads and your driving environment, they could last 80,000 miles or more. In addition to brake pads, you may also need to service: 

  • Brake drums, 
  • Brake discs, 
  • Brake lines, and 
  • Brake rotors. 

Problems with Your Car’s Ignition System

The ignition system is instrumental in starting your vehicle. This system includes your starter, battery, and the ignition itself. If a problem arises with your ignition system, your vehicle may not start. Or, it could stop in the middle of the road. The best solution is to have vehicle diagnostics at ABS Unlimited Auto Repair and replace your car’s ignition component whenever a problem is detected.

Thermostat Replacement

Your vehicle’s thermostat regulates the temperature in the engine. If your thermostat malfunctions, it can cause your engine to overheat —relatively quickly. And when your engine overheats, it can lead to irreparable damage, ultimately requiring engine replacement, which is probably the most expensive automotive repair you can have. Fortunately, you can avoid engine replacement by proactively replacing the thermostat as needed. And the team at ABS Unlimited Auto Repair can help. 

Spark Plug Replacement 

Your spark plug is a small device that provides the spark required to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. While spark plugs are durable, they are like every other component on your vehicle and will eventually wear out. If you fail to replace your spark plug promptly, it can reduce your vehicle’s MPGs. Even worse, a bad spark plug could lead to your catalytic converter melting, which can be exponentially more expensive. The best solution is to contact ABS Unlimited Auto Repair for spark plug replacement. 

Oil Changes 

No list of the most common automotive repairs is complete without including the oil change. Simply put, oil change is the most important service you can have for your vehicle. It involves removing the old, spent oil and replacing it with fresh, nutrient-rich oil and a new filter. This is important because, over time your oil picks up debris and dirt and will begin to degrade. When this occurs, the free-flowing oil will morph into a thick sludge, making it almost impossible to lubricate your engine parts. Because of this, it’s imperative to have an oil change based on the manufacturer’s suggested intervals. And the experts at ABS Unlimited Auto Repair can help.

Contact ABS Unlimited Auto Repair for the Best “Auto Repair Near Me” or “Mechanic Near Me”

Whether you need an oil change, engine repair, or any other automotive service, ABS Unlimited Auto Repair is your one-stop shop. We are proud to be the best auto repair center in the area, offering a vast range of solutions. 

Contact ABS Unlimited Auto Repair today! Call us at (703)-352-7770, stop by to see us at 3215 Old Pickett Rd in Fairfax VA, or complete our online contact form