According to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, car owners are having more problems with their vehicles after three years. The study reported many problems for almost two-thirds of the car brands studied. Cars, like any other machine, can experience problems over time.
However, understanding the usual car problems can help you identify and address them promptly. What common issues might your car face?
Discover them below and learn how to tackle them effectively:
Battery Issues
These can range from a dead battery that won’t start your car to a battery slowly losing power. The most common causes of battery problems include extreme temperatures. Aging batteries, leaving lights or accessories on, and faulty electrical systems are other causes.
To avoid these typical automobile issues, check the terminals for green stuff and clean them with a baking soda and water mix. Don’t leave your lights on when the car is off, and replace your battery if it’s old. You can jump-start your battery with another car or a special tool if your battery dies.
Tire Problems
Tire issues like flats, worn tread, and uneven pressure are common car issues. To prevent these problems, regularly check your vehicle’s tire pressure and tread depth.
If you get a flat, repair it or use a spare (which comes in 60% of new cars), and avoid overloading your car to keep the tires in good shape.
Brake Problems
Brake problems are common, ranging from soft brakes to complete failure, often caused by worn brake pads or contaminated rotors. Checking and replacing brake pads, rotors, and fluids are part of car maintenance tips to keep brakes working properly.
Keeping brake fluid cleanand at the right level helps prevent issues like brake fade.
Engine Problems
Engine problems can be costly and frustrating for car owners. Common issues include misfires, overheating, and poor performance. Misfires reduce power and cause rough idling; overheating is often due to a faulty thermostat or coolant leaks, and poor performance can stem from fuel delivery or ignition problems.
Consulting a mechanic is crucial for diagnosing engine issues. Some frequent car troubles, like spark plug replacements, are simple to fix. However, more severe issues may require extensive repairs or a full engine rebuild.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is among the everyday car problems associated with the engine or emissions system. There are many reasons why the check engine light might come on. Some common causes include:
- Loose or faulty gas cap
- Sensor issues
- Ignition problems
- Exhaust system problems
When the light comes on, get the vehicle checked by a mechanic promptly. They can use a scanner to read the stored codes and identify the issue. Afterward, they’ll recommend the necessary repairs.
Don’t Let Usual Car Problems Slow You Down
Cars can break down unexpectedly, often leaving you stranded and in need of immediate assistance. Knowing what might go wrong can help you fix any usual car problems quickly. This way, you’ll have a fun and safe driving experience.
Is your car experiencing problems? Trust RNS Service, Orville’s trusted auto repair shop since 1977 with expert automotive repair services, including oil lube and filter, tire dealer and repair, and light truck repair.
Visit us today to have your car inspected and get the expert care it deserves.
Owen Stoller is a third-generation member of the Stoller family and serves as a Service Advisor at RNS Service in Orrville, Ohio. Carrying on a family tradition that began in 1977, Owen is committed to helping customers make informed decisions about their vehicles through honest communication, technical expertise, and a genuine commitment to their safety.
With five years of professional automotive experience, Owen has earned Master ASE Certification, including the prestigious ASE C1 Service Consultant certification. His combination of technical knowledge and customer service expertise allows him to bridge the gap between the repair shop and the vehicle owner, ensuring every customer understands their vehicle's needs and can make confident maintenance and repair decisions.
Owen earned his bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management from The University of Akron, bringing a strong foundation in operations, organization, and problem-solving to the family business. He is passionate about continuous learning and regularly studies leadership to better serve both the RNS Service team and the customers who rely on them.
As the grandson of RNS Service founder Bob Stoller and the son of Jeff Stoller, Owen is proud to continue the values that have defined the business for nearly 50 years: integrity, quality workmanship, and treating every customer like family. He believes that auto repair is about more than fixing vehicles—it's about building lasting relationships based on trust and helping keep families safe on the road.
Outside the shop, Owen has been married to his wife, Carissa, for five years, and together they are raising their three children, Tucker, Wesley, and their youngest. Family life keeps him busy, whether he's hobby farming, making maple syrup, dreaming up new projects and ideas, or simply spending time with his children. Those same values of hard work, stewardship, and community continue to shape the way he serves customers every day at RNS Service.