People love SUVs, be it for carrying more load or to just be in a bigger car. And the number of SUVs we see on the roads today goes to show just how much these vehicles are loved.
Globally, SUVs accounted for almost 50 percent of the total car sales in 2023. However, keeping an SUV in good shape can feel like a full-time job sometimes. You try to stay on top of regular checks, but life gets busy, and things slip through the cracks. Still, your SUV has a way of dropping hints when something is not right.
If you pay attention to these signs early, you can save money, avoid stress, and keep yourself safe on the road. So let’s walk through a few red flags that mean your SUV needs urgent maintenance work.
Your Engine Sounds Different Than Usual
SUVs can always develop engine problems, and they can happen for many reasons. For instance, recently, General Motors recalled over 400,000 diesel-engine SUVs and pickup trucks in the US. The recalls were made because of faulty transmission control valves.
Engines have their own rhythm. You get used to how your SUV sounds when everything is fine. So when you hear new noises, it usually means trouble.
A knocking sound can point to issues with the engine’s internal parts. A loud ticking sound may suggest a problem with oil flow. Strange hissing can mean a leak somewhere under the hood.
The worst thing you can do is turn up the volume on your radio and hope it goes away. Engines rarely fix themselves. If anything changes in the way your SUV sounds, get it checked as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can prevent a minor issue from turning into an expensive repair.
The Ride Feels Bouncy
One of the easiest signs to notice is how your SUV feels on the road. When everything is fine, the ride should be stable and controlled. But when the ride becomes bouncy on smooth roads, something is wrong. You might feel the whole vehicle sway more than usual when you turn or brake.
Sometimes you may even feel every tiny bump like it is much bigger than it should be. A bouncy ride often points to problems with the suspension. This is where things can get serious. If your SUV needs car suspension repair, you will often notice poor handling and a drop in comfort.
As Chapel Hill Tire points out, issues in the car suspension usually come from wear and tear in the car’s suspension system. When that happens, your safety drops because the vehicle becomes harder to control. Good maintenance can help you avoid accidents and protect the condition of your shocks and struts. Once these parts fail, you lose stability, which affects how your tires meet the road.
You Notice a Strong Smell When Driving
Strange smells inside your SUV are never a good sign. A burning smell might mean your brakes are overheating. It can also point to electrical issues that need attention. A sweet smell can mean coolant is leaking somewhere. A strong fuel smell inside the cabin is even more dangerous. It can signal a fuel leak that puts you at risk of a fire.
You should never ignore unusual smells. If you notice something odd more than once, stop driving and get the SUV examined. Some issues connected to smells can turn dangerous faster than you expect. Acting early helps protect your SUV and keeps you safe.
Warning Lights Keep Coming On
Dashboard lights exist for a reason. When the lights stay on or keep flashing, something needs attention.
The check engine light is the most common one. Then there’s the ABS light that can mean your brake system needs work. The battery light can suggest trouble with the charging system.
Mechanics have special tools to read codes from your SUV’s system. Those codes reveal what is wrong and help you avoid guesswork. If your SUV shows warning lights for more than a day, get it inspected.
Your SUV Takes Longer to Stop
Your brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle. If your SUV starts taking longer to stop, that is a clear sign you need maintenance. You might feel the pedal sink lower. You might feel vibrations when braking. You might even hear grinding or squealing sounds.
These signs point to worn brake pads or issues with the rotors. They can also point to problems with brake fluid. Whatever the cause, brake problems should never wait.
FAQ’s
What is the most frequent maintenance task for a car?
The most frequent task is changing the engine oil at regular intervals. Fresh oil protects the engine from wear. Drivers should also check tire pressure often. Clean air filters help maintain smooth performance. Fluid levels need regular checks to prevent damage. Routine inspections keep small problems from growing. Consistent care supports long vehicle life.
How do you know when your car needs servicing?
You know your car needs servicing when warning lights appear on the dashboard. Strange noises or vibrations also signal trouble. Poor fuel economy may show hidden issues. Hard starting can indicate worn parts. Leaks and burning smells require quick attention. Slower braking suggests maintenance needs. A service schedule helps prevent sudden breakdowns.
What car requires less maintenance?
Cars known for reliability often require less maintenance over time. Many compact models have simple systems that reduce repair needs. Hybrids can last long with proper care. Vehicles from brands with strong durability records stay dependable. Regular driving habits also influence maintenance levels. Simple designs lower costs. Choosing reliable models protects long-term budgets.
Globally, the SUV penetration rate is expected to exceed 65 percent within the next five years. You, too, might choose to buy an SUV or upgrade to a new year. And while an SUV is tough, it still needs care to keep doing its job.
Paying attention to small changes can help you avoid big failures later. The signs discussed above are your SUV’s way of asking for help. Acting fast protects your wallet, your safety, and the life of your vehicle.
