5 Car Problems You Can Check Yourself

Think your car might be in trouble? Learn the top 5 issues you can spot yourself, and how to get a quick AI diagnosis before booking a mechanic.

Most car issues start with small symptoms, but that doesn’t mean you need to panic or run straight to the garage.
In this post, we’ll walk through five of the most common car problems you can identify yourself. And we’ll show you how to use Auto Advisor to get a fast, free diagnosis online.

1. Car Won’t Start (But Battery Seems Fine)

Check: Are the dashboard lights working? Do you hear a clicking noise?
Possible causes: Starter motor failure, ignition switch, fuse issues.
Use Auto Advisor to enter: “My car won’t start but the lights are on” for instant insight.

🛑 2. Brakes Squeaking or Grinding

Check: When does the sound happen — braking slowly, or in the rain?
Possible causes: Worn brake pads, rust, misaligned parts.
Use: “My brakes squeak when I slow down” in the AI tool.

🌡 3. Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Check: Which icon is flashing? Solid or blinking?
Use Auto Advisor for: “Check engine light came on” to understand what might be behind it.

💨 4. Strange Smells or Smoke

Check: Is it sweet, burnt, or musty? Is it coming from vents or the engine?
Common triggers: Coolant leaks, oil leaks, or worn belts.

🛞 5. Steering Feels Off or Car Pulls to One Side

Check: Does it pull when accelerating or braking? On straight roads?
Likely causes: Tyre pressure imbalance, alignment issues.

Not sure which issue you’re dealing with?
👉 Use the Free Diagnostics Tool to describe the problem in your own words and get instant results.