Routine maintenance and repairs are part of car ownership. Minor or significant problems can pop-up at any time, but that doesn’t mean you necessarily have the funds readily available to fix it. We asked a  Mechanic about the most critical–and minor–issues they see most often. You don’t want to end up with any of the most costliest car repairs, we previously talked about!

Don’t Wait for Car Repairs If…

• You Hear Strange Noises from Your Engine.

Your engine is the most expensive and essential part of your vehicle. If you hear clunking or knocking sounds in the engine—especially when accelerating—you need to bring this into a mechanic ASAP. These sounds could be an indication of excessive wear between major components. If left unresolved, serious damage could result.

• You Need an Oil Change

It’s important to have your oil changed according to the schedule in your vehicle owner’s manual. Keeping clean oil in your car engine protects it and prevents potentially costly issues from arising.

• You Notice A Coolant Leak

If your vehicle’s brake pedal travel increases, you might have a fluid leak in your brake system. While a grinding noise is likely worn-down brake pads, you should still bring this in quickly. Staying on top of brake pad changes can actually help your rotors last longer and save you money in the long-run.

• If You Notice Steering Issues.

If you can’t steer, you can’t drive safely. If you notice difficulty steering, your power-steering belt may be damaged, resulting in a power steering failure. If this is the case, don’t attempt to drive your car and call your  Mechanic immediately!

What Repairs Can Wait?

• Minor oil leaks:

Yes, oil is critical to your engine’s health, but you can wait to fix minor oil leaks. If you aren’t seeing oil on the ground, you’re not likely in immediate danger of damaging your engine. However, no vehicle system is designed to leak that’s why at Master Mechanic, we still advise that you check your levels regularly by looking at the dipstick. If you’re running low, add oil and monitor how long it takes until you need to add more. As a good habit,check about once a month, but if you suspect you have a slow leak, you should check more often.

• Certain belts and hoses:

Car manufacturers don’t suggest you change your belts and hoses at scheduled intervals, with the exception of a timing belt.  Typically, car manufacturers recommend inspecting belts and hoses at regular intervals.It’s important to find a trusted mechanic that will be transparent with you about these repairs, so you don’t overpay.

• Dents and Scratches

Duh, right? While it may seem obvious, and you’re likely fine to hold off getting these repairs immediately, you should still ask your Mechanic.

When it comes to scratches, repairs largely depend on climate. If you’re in Ontario, the changing weather and salt used on our roads can lead to rust and other issues. If you have a surface scratch that doesn’t expose the bare metal beneath the paint, this doesn’t need to be fixed regardless of the weather.

When a car Cannot be repaired?

A car cannot be repaired in certain situations, usually due to economic, technical, or safety concerns. Here are the common reasons:

1. Severe Structural Damage

• Frame Damage: If the vehicle’s frame or chassis is bent or cracked beyond repair, it may be unsafe to fix.
• Flood Damage: Cars that have been submerged in water often suffer irreparable damage to electrical systems, interiors, and mechanical components.

2. High Cost of Repairs

• Exceeds Vehicle Value: If the repair costs exceed the car’s market value (often termed a “total loss” by insurance), repairing it might not be worth it.
• Rare or Obsolete Parts: For older or rare models, replacement parts might be unavailable or extremely expensive.

3. Irreparable Engine or Transmission Failure

• Catastrophic Engine Damage: For example, if the engine block is cracked or seized.
• Transmission Beyond Repair: Significant transmission failure can make replacement more practical than repair.

4. Safety Concerns

• Repairs that can’t restore a car to its original safety standards, such as those involving airbags or crumple zones, may deem the vehicle unrepairable.

5. Legal Restrictions

• Write-Offs by Insurance: In some regions, vehicles declared “salvage” or “totaled” cannot be legally repaired and put back on the road.
• Non-Compliance with Emissions Standards: If the car cannot be repaired to meet emissions or environmental regulations.

6. Lack of Skilled Mechanics

• Specialty or older cars may require expertise or tools unavailable in certain locations, making repairs unfeasible.

When a car cannot be repaired, options include selling it for parts, recycling it, or donating it to organizations that can make partial use of its components.