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8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Service Department
Hours
  • Mon 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Tue 7:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Wed 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Thu 7:30AM - 5:30PM
  • Fri 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Whiteheart and Sons Automotive Service Center in Winston-Salem NC Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit Whiteheart and Sons Automotive Service Center to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Whiteheart and Sons Automotive Service Center. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by Whiteheart and Sons Automotive Service Center located at 3500 N Patterson Ave in Winston-Salem, NC or call 336-724-7463 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.

What People Say About Us

Winston-Salem
  • , 06/06/2023

    Brennan was phenomenal! I needed towing from Winston-Salem to High Point with my 7 year old. Brennan looked at the problem and diagnosed it accurately. Too bad I still needed towing. He was professional, caring, and considerate of my little one. He and his truck was clean! That means a lot. I ran into this company through AAA, but will definitely think of them when I need their service again! Thank you for a great experience during a trying time.

  • , 05/25/2023

    Excellent services provided diagnosing a coolant leak. Thank you for the thorough testing to ensure the issue was fixed. I would recommend Whiteheart to friends and family.

Winston-Salem
  • , 12/28/2022

    Enrique Noyola came out and towed our car to the dealership because the battery was dead. He was so kind and considerate. He did such a great job. We were very impressed by the customer service he provided.

  • , 10/12/2022

    I was coming back from Kentucky and broke down in Rural Hall with my elderly mother in tow. I have AAA and they left me stranded for 3 hours until they finally called Whiteheart to come and get us. And it was only 30 minutes from the time Whiteheart got the call that they were there to help. I was angry with AAA because they did not call this company sooner. Had I known of this company before this night I would have called them directly and skipped AAA. The tow truck driver (sorry I do not remember his name) that came to rescue us was so polite, professional and and helpful. It had started raining and he let us get in the truck while he hooked the car up. He got us down the road and home within an hour, along with some great conversation. I am so appreciative that he came so quickly and got us where we needed to go safely. THANK YOU!!!!

Winston-Salem
  • , 09/26/2022

    William was quick and friendly when he came to tow my vehicle from Winston Salem to Booneville! Awesome service

  • , 09/18/2022

    William is the best, he contacted me to let me know he was on the way and was very accurate with his information. He had me back in my car within minutes of his arrival. Prompt and professional, thank you very much.

Call us for service: 336-724-7463

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
Car Care One
AAA (American Automobile Association)
  • Car Care Aware