All vehicles need preventive maintenance to keep them in good running condition and safe to drive. Ignoring vehicular maintenance could make your car dangerous to drive. According to Driver Knowledge, the United States averages about 6 million vehicular collisions every year. Here are some signs that show your car needs maintenance or auto repair so that you stand a better chance of not being among the millions in an accident over the next year.

Your Engine Lacks Power

If the engine is sluggish, misfiring, or lacking power, then something isn't right. It might have bad spark plugs, bad wires, or maybe a problem with fuel injectors. Whatever the problem might be, the engine lacks full power and it will burn fuel a lot faster. Timely auto maintenance could help fix the problem and have the engine running right again.

Your Brakes Are Making Unusual Noises

Bad brakes require auto repair right away to restore full stopping power and prevent a potential accident. Brakes are essential for helping you to maintain safe speeds and stop when necessary. Most vehicles have disc brakes, which have brake pads that press against steel rotors to slow your vehicle and make it stop. When the pads are worn out, their metal rivets and backing plates will contact the rotors and make a lot of squealing and scraping sounds. Replacing the brake pads before they wear out will stop that from happening.

There's Vibration While Turning

Suspension systems have tie rod ends and ball joints that help to keep the vehicle steady. They also have struts, springs, and other parts that help to keep your vehicle level while turning and going over bumps. If you feel the steering vibrating or making strange sounds while turning or braking, then you might need an auto repair technician to replace worn parts and make your vehicle handle better.

Your Owner's Manual Says It's Time

The best way to know your car needs some maintenance is to pay attention to the maintenance schedule that the automaker included with your vehicle. The maintenance schedule is based on the expected service life of the parts and fluids that enable your vehicle to run and drive safely. When you abide by the maintenance schedule, your car typically will have less need for an auto repair service.

You can call or visit our service facility to obtain needed auto repair and maintenance services and lower the odds of being in an accident. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment for the car maintenance services you need by giving us a call at ATR Inc.