10 Common Car Problems and How to Fix Them

Owning a car can be quite fulfilling but can also bring some challenges. Understanding how to fix common car issues can be incredibly valuable for car owners looking to avoid big garage bills. As the leading car part specialist, we pride ourselves on helping our customers with their vehicle needs. We provide and offer genuine Honda parts to keep your car running in optimum conditions.

Today, we aim to educate the readers about fixing common car issues, empathising with their struggles, and offering detailed solutions.

1. Facing the Fear of a Dead Battery

A dead battery is something all car owner’s dread. The most common reason for a dead battery is leaving your car’s lights or accessories on overnight. To jump-start your battery safely, follow these steps:

1. Position another vehicle close to yours and ensure both engines are off.
2. Connect the positive ends of both batteries using a jumper cable.
3. Connect the negative end to the negative terminal on the good battery and the other end to a metal part of the car with the dead battery.
4. Start the working car’s engine, wait a few minutes, and then try starting your car.

Remember to carry jumper cables with you to ensure you are ready for such situations.

2. How to Fix a Flat Tire

Flat tires are an inevitable part of driving. Some common causes include punctures, leaks, or a misaligned tire balance. If you notice your tire losing air or your car feels unstable while driving, check your tires immediately.

Changing a tire is quite simple and involves the following steps:

1. Park your car on flat ground and engage the handbrake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts and raise your vehicle using a jack.
3. Remove the lug nuts completely and replace the flat tire with the spare.
4. Tighten the lug nuts in a diagonal pattern and lower your car back to the ground.
5. Securely tighten the lug nuts, and you’re good to go!

3. Dealing With Worn-out Brake Pads

Brake pads are essential for safe driving, as they regulate the braking force in your vehicle. Regular wear and tear can lead to worn-out brake pads, decreasing braking efficiency and potential accidents. Replacing them is easy, and you can follow these steps:

1. Park on a flat surface and engage the handbrake.
2. Remove the wheel from your car.
3. Locate and remove the brake calliper, then slide out the old brake pads.
4. Install the new pads, ensuring they match the old ones.
5. Re-secure the calliper and wheel and test your brakes before driving again.

You can find genuine Honda parts, including brake pads, on our website to ensure your safety.

4. Navigating Through Faulty Spark Plugs

Spark plugs play a crucial role in starting your engine, and their lifespan varies depending on the type.

Faulty spark plugs may cause misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, or engine stalling. To replace them, follow these steps:

1. Locate and remove the old spark plugs by disconnecting the ignition wire and using a spark plug wrench.
2. Take your new spark plugs and set the gap per manufacturer requirements.
3. Install the new plugs and reconnect the ignition wires.

5. Tackling Broken Headlights or Taillights

Having fully functional lights is essential for staying safe on the road. If your headlights or taillights are broken, you must replace them as soon as possible. Follow these steps:

1. Locate and remove the faulty bulb by unplugging the connectors, retaining clips, and twisting the bulb socket.
2. Hold the new bulb using gloves or a cloth to avoid damaging it.
3. Install the new bulb by reversing the previously mentioned steps.

6. Overcoming a Clogged Air Filter

The air filter helps maintain the quality of air entering your engine, and a clogged one may decrease overall engine performance.

To replace a clogged air filter, follow these steps:

1. Locate and remove the air filter’s housing cover.
2. Replace it with a new filter of the same size and specifications.
3. Re-secure the housing cover.

7. What to Do with Low Windshield Washer Fluid

Maintaining windshield visibility is pivotal for safe driving. Upon detecting a lower fluid level, top up with the exceptional, frost-resistant Wurth Windscreen Cleaner / Additive Screenwash 5 Litres.

Its advanced formula ensures even wetting and prevents rapid dirt adhesion post-application. Gentle on materials, it’s suitable for any vehicle type. Make a straightforward choice for superior cleanliness and ultimate driver safety.

8. Wrestling With Worn-out Windshield Wiper Blades

Worn-out wiper blades can impair your vision in rain and snowfall. To replace them, follow these steps:

1. Raise the wiper arm and unclip or slide the old blade to remove it.
2. Attach the new blade and secure it in place.

9. Surviving a Faulty Thermostat

A car’s thermostat regulates the flow of coolant in the engine. Signs of a faulty one include erratic temperature readings and overheating. To replace a thermostat, follow these steps:

1. Drain the coolant and remove the thermostat housing.
2. Remove the damaged thermostat and install the new one.
3. Reassemble the housing and refill the coolant.

10. Fixing Loose or Damaged Battery Cables

Battery cables are responsible for transmitting the electric current from the battery to your engine.

Symptoms of loose/damaged cables include flickering lights or difficulty starting. To replace them safely, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the negative and positive battery terminals.
2. Remove the damaged cable and secure the replacement one in its place.
3. Reconnect the terminals, starting with the positive cable.

Get the Parts You Need With Cox Motor Group

Dealing with car problems can be daunting, even for the most seasoned drivers. But remember, issues with your Honda Civic or any other vehicle are simply an invitation to understand it better and maintain it carefully.

Finding the right Honda Accord parts in the UK or any Honda model can make all the difference. We’re dedicated to providing genuine Honda parts that have passed rigorous safety, durability, and performance tests. Ultimately, overcoming car problems isn’t just about fixing them—it’s about making your journeys safer and smoother. So, when you’re ready, we’re here to empower you with our comprehensive range. You can order your parts online, or feel free to contact our staff, who can assist you in finding the right one for your car.