Best Auto Repair, Chattanooga

CONTACT US
YelpYou TubeInstagramFacebookGoogle Business Profile

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Working Hours
  • Mon 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Tue 7:30AM - 6:00PM
  • Wed 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Thu 7:30AM - 6:00PM
  • Fri 7:30AM - 6:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Maxi Auto Service in Chattanooga TN Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit Maxi Auto Service to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Maxi Auto Service. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by Maxi Auto Service located at 4986 Hwy 58 in Chattanooga, TN or call 423-892-6159 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.

What People Say About Us

Chattanooga
  • reviewiconHonest Mechanic
    Electrical Services, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 02/04/2020

    Great work!! Chris was the person that took care of me up at the front desk. He is also the manager, he is a very kind and knowledgeable employee!!

  • reviewiconHonest Mechanic
    Electrical Services, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 08/10/2019

    They do excellent work.totally satisfied, If need to I would most definitely use them again.

Chattanooga
  • reviewiconFast Full Service
    Car & Truck Care, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 11/20/2019

    Great service and did a wonderful job. Very glad to have my truck back up to par

  • reviewiconFast Full Service
    Car & Truck Care, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 11/20/2019

    Did an awsome job !! Went to the maxi first time on red bank and man did they botch the job not to mention over charged me from what after what they initially told me ..I have access to a lift and when i brought my truck back to my shop and lift it up to inspect the work , and what a quality job they did . super happy , paid a little more then what i expected but after i saw the work they did , money well spent . Thanks again guys !

Chattanooga
  • reviewiconBest Local Mechanic
    Undercar Services, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 10/17/2019

    This is a great place for anyone who needs to have work done. I had my sway bar links replaced at the dealership and when I picked the car up, it was making a knocking sound near the wheels/underside of the car. Turns out the dealership didn't tighten my sway bar and also stripped a nut/bolt when they repaired my sway bar links. Maxi offers free inspections and the dealership was trying to charge me again just to have it looked at after they obviously messed something up on the car. I took it to Maxi and explained my situation and they tightened my sway bar free of charge. I highly recommend this shop.

  • reviewiconBest Local Mechanic
    Undercar Services, near Chattanooga, Tennessee
    , 02/04/2020

    Great work!! Chris was the person that took care of me up at the front desk. He is also the manager, he is a very kind and knowledgeable employee!!

Call us for service: 423-892-6159

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
Jasper
Magnaflow
Flowmaster
Monroe
Nexen
BBB
  • Car Care Aware