Common Symptoms
What do common car symptoms mean?
Quick answer: Most warning signs trace back to a short list of causes. Find your symptom below to see the usual causes, then tap More Detail for the full page. Not sure what you have? Call 503-626-4810 and describe it.
Hard clutch pedal means a worn bearing guide, binding cable, or hydraulic problem.
Hard shifting means the clutch isn’t releasing because of a hydraulic, linkage, or disc problem.
Car won’t start due to battery failure, starter issue, ignition fault, or fuel problem.
Clutch noise points to a worn release bearing, pilot bearing, or dry pivot.
Car leaking fluid identified by color: coolant, oil, transmission, or brake fluid.
Car burning smell traced by scent: clutch, brakes, oil, belt, or electrical fault.
Brake warning light signals low fluid or lost pressure in red, an ABS fault in amber.
Car clunking noise over bumps means sway bar links, struts, or worn bushings.
Clicking noise when turning usually means a worn CV joint on one front axle.
Brake noise means a worn pad wear indicator squealing, or grinding from metal-on-metal.
Loss of power while driving due to fuel issue, transmission fault, or engine problem.
Humming noise while driving is usually a wheel bearing or uneven tire wear.
Squealing noise on startup is usually a slipping belt, and a cheap thing to fix.
Smoke from exhaust: white means coolant, blue means oil, and black means fuel.
Common Questions About Car Symptoms
What does a hard clutch pedal mean?
Usually a worn bearing guide, a binding cable, or a hydraulic problem.
What does a brake warning light mean?
A red brake warning light signals low fluid or lost pressure. An amber light signals an ABS fault.
What causes a clicking noise when turning?
Usually a worn CV joint on one front axle.
Why does my car squeal on startup?
Usually a slipping belt.
What does the color of exhaust smoke mean?
White smoke means coolant, blue smoke means oil, and black smoke means fuel.