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8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Working Hours
  • Mon 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Tue 7:30AM - 6:00PM
  • Wed 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Thu 7:30AM - 6:00PM
  • Fri 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Maxi Auto Service in Hixson TN 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 Maxi Auto Service 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 Maxi Auto Service. 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 Maxi Auto Service located at 5229 Hixson Pike in Hixson, TN or call 423-877-5569 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.

What People Say About Us

Hixson
  • reviewiconFast Full Service
    General Services, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 02/05/2020

    Maxi Auto service has been taking great care of my cars for over five years now. Gary does a great job, is trustworthy and fast, and always keeps me updated on what I need to do to my car. I recommend these guys for all your auto repairs because of their integrity and good prices. Thank you Gary for taking care my car

  • reviewiconFast Full Service
    General Services, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 01/22/2019

    I had a great experience with these guys today. I usually go to the maxi in red bank but they were slammed full today and randy recommended here. I had a wheel bearing out and they took me in and got me out in under 2 hours. That gary guy might not be the friendliest but we cant all be people persons. The other guy did great work at a fair price. I would go here again absolutely.

Hixson
  • reviewiconBest Auto Repair
    Engine Maintenance, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 08/15/2019

    Called them after terrible service at another shop that was trying to price gauge me and push unnecessary repairs. Spoke with Gary, the manager at this location, and right off the bat he won my business after I expressed some concern about the "suggested repairs" that the other shop had mentioned. He asked it the parts were working, told him yes, as far as I knew, but had been told that replacement was suggested "since those parts are often damaged when doing the primary repair." Without flinching, he immediately responded that, yes, they could replace those parts if I wanted, but that they normally did not change parts if they were in working order. Took car the following morning, repair was completed by that afternoon. I don't know about other reviews, but they did right by me and would gladly recommend them.

  • reviewiconBest Auto Repair
    Engine Maintenance, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 10/29/2019

    Excellent service. They diagnosed the problem with my car, when two other auto shops failed to do so. Highly recommend them. Blessings!

Hixson
  • reviewiconLocal Mechanics
    Car & Truck Care, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 08/20/2019

    I started taking my daughters car here after a horrible experience at Firestone down the road. They have been honest and straight forward with us. They made my daughter feel as if she could trust them and their work over the other repair shops around. Keep up the great work!

  • reviewiconLocal Mechanics
    Car & Truck Care, near Hixson, Tennessee
    , 02/05/2020

    Maxi Auto service has been taking great care of my cars for over five years now. Gary does a great job, is trustworthy and fast, and always keeps me updated on what I need to do to my car. I recommend these guys for all your auto repairs because of their integrity and good prices. Thank you Gary for taking care my car

Call us for service: 423-877-5569

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