KEEPING your car in a safe condition is an essential part of being a driver. But certain repairs are a lot more pricey than others.
The 5 most costly repairs in a car are:
GEARBOX:
Repairing an automatic gearbox can be a specialist and often very complex job, which can sometimes work out to be more expensive than replacing it entirely.
Symptoms of a damaged gearbox include slipping gears, fluid leaks, burning smells and unusual noises such as whining.
CLUTCH:
The clutch is another element which can be costly to repair. Drivers usually get a good deal of warning though before the clutch needs replacing.
Some telltale signs include a high biting point on the pedal, noise from the transmission when pressing on the clutch, clutch slipping and difficulty changing gears.
DUAL MASS FLYWHEEL:
If the clutch needs replacing, then there is a chance good chance the dual mass flywheel will also need to be fixed.
The part is fitted to motors to minimise vibration and make the engine starting process as smooth as possible. And you'll know it needs to be changed if the clutch pedal begins to vibrate or the car begins to shudder at a low speed.
HEAD GASKET:
If a car begins to lose power, overheat and leak coolant, it can mean the head gasket has suffered significant damage.
Although they're relatively cheap to repair, the labour costs can increase quickly.
TURBO:
Finally, turbos will gradually fail as a result of oil starvation, contamination or leakages.
Clear indicators that a turbo is deteriorating include slow acceleration, burning excessive amounts of oil and a distinct grey smoke coming from the exhaust.
HOW TO CHECK FOR COSTLY FAULTS:
· Automatic gear box - Unusual noises, slipping gears, fluid leaks and burning smells.
· Clutch - High biting point on the pedal, noise from the transmission when pressing on the clutch, clutch slipping or difficulty changing gears.
· Dual mass flywheel - Vibration through the clutch pedal, difficulty changing gear, shuddering at low speed or high load.
· Head gasket - Loss of power, overheating, oil contamination, external coolant or oil leaks.
· Turbo - Slow acceleration and loss of power, the vehicle burning excessive amounts of oil, a distinct gray or blue smoke coming from the exhaust.
The majority of motors should indicate a fault via the warning light on the dashboard. However, it is always best to make sure your car is in the best condition BEFORE anything happens.
That is why you should have your car checked on a regular basis. Contact www.MenlynGearbox.co.za for an appointment!
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