Buying a car could be challenging, but keeping it in a pristine condition is one of the greatest difficulties you will ever face in your life.
Getting your car towed while going on a highway or driving with a constant vibration in the steering wheel is no fun. Car problems are something that every driver will face at some point in their life.
Whether you are driving to work or going on a trip with friends, the last thing you will ever want is your vehicle giving you a tough time.
If talking about Houston, apart from the common problems people face worldwide, cars are more prone to seasonal damage due to heavy rainfalls and intense heat conditions.
Moreover, the city’s traffic also plays a role in creating problems for vehicles, and you have to visit an auto repair shop more often.
Here, we will have a look at some of the most common problems among cars in Houston and what are their root causes.
1) Problem with Ignition Coils and Spark Plugs
All the good ignition coils are designed to last more than 100,000 miles. However, factors like high voltage due to a bad spark plug, intense heat, and moisture can damage the coils earlier.
Other things that can cause problems with the ignition coil include excessive engine vibrations due to engine misfires or problems with spark plugs. It can cause breaks in the secondary coil winding, eventually leading to malfunctioning of the ignition coil.
Some of the symptoms of a bad ignition coil include loss of power accelerating, engine misfire, the engine taking longer to start, and vibrating when idle.
2) Problems With Air-Conditioning
This is a common issue with most cars in Houston because of the high temperature. The AC system might be fine, but it loses its efficiency because of outside heat.
The AC system might leak the refrigerant, the compressor could stop working, or the condenser can be clogged, due to which AC loses its efficiency.
Refrigerant leakage could be caused when there is a hole in the connecting pipes or hoses, or it can also leak from the compressor seals.
Gas leaks are very difficult to identify, and only a good mechanic who relies on the latest technology can help to identify the leak and fix the issue.
Sometimes, there are simple problems due to which the AC stops functioning, such as a blown-away fuse or bad relay.
If the blower is not working efficiently and awkward voices are heard when turning on the AC, the problem could be with the belts that run the compressor.
Due to high moisture levels in Huston, bacteria can build up on the air conditioner’s evaporator coil. The slim film of the AC fins produces a strong smell every time you turn on the air conditioner.
3) Worn Brake Pads
Due to harsh braking and driving in heavy traffic, the brake pads are worn out after some time. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your brakes, then you need to get them checked.
If timely precautions are taken, then you can stay safe from getting your brake pads replaced. The timely precautions include ensuring that the brake oil is up to a sufficient level and the brake pads are clean.
In Houston, most cars have problems with their brake pads because of high temperatures. When brake pads are constantly heated, they wear out quicker than usual.
The road conditions in Houston are not very good. Due to the number of trucks on the road, there are several potholes that cause additional stress on your brake pads.
4) Steering Wheel and Tires Vibrating
If you are facing the problem of vibrating the steering wheel while driving, there might be a problem with your car’s wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel and tires are vibrating only when you start the car and begin to drive, then the problem is with your wheel alignment.
On the opposite, if you face this problem while driving at a higher speed, then the problem is with wheel balancing. Regardless of the issue, if there is a vibration, then you should consult an auto mechanic as soon as possible.
5) Problems with the Battery
The modern car batteries should last more than five years. However, the batteries lose their power soon if proper care is not taken.
Some common reasons behind a dead battery include leaving the air conditioner on when the engine is not running, not starting a car for long periods, and damage to the alternator due to which the battery doesn’t charge when the vehicle is running.
Battery problems are common in Houston due to high humidity levels. Humidity causes the battery terminals to corrode, due to which the battery loses its ability to conduct electricity.
Sometimes, if the battery condition is not good, then the increased use of air-conditioners can also cause the battery to lose its efficiency.