Car maintenance is not limited to scheduled service intervals, as vehicles often display early warning signs that require immediate attention. Ignoring these indicators in daily driving conditions can lead to mechanical failures, safety risks and higher repair costs. Unusual sounds, changes in driving behaviour or dashboard warning lights typically signal potential issues. Identifying and addressing these signs early can help prevent breakdowns and maintain safe vehicle operation. Here are five signs that suggest your car needs an immediate service check.

Check engine and other warning lights on dashboardDashboard warning lights indicate issues that need immediate attention. If the check engine, oil pressure, battery or brake lights stay on while driving, it usually signals a mechanical or electrical fault. Ignoring these alerts can affect performance, damage components, or cause a breakdown. Dashboard warning lights may indicate problems ranging from minor to serious. Issues such as a loose fuel cap or faulty oxygen or mass airflow sensors can trigger the check engine light, often affecting fuel efficiency and emissions without immediately impacting drivability. More severe faults, including catalytic converter failure, ignition problems or engine misfires, can also illuminate the warning light and may cause power loss, rough idling and potential engine damage if ignored. Early inspection can help detect the issue and avoid more serious and expensive repairs.

Unusual noises while drivingNew or unfamiliar sounds while driving often indicate a problem. Knocking from the engine, grinding or squealing from the brakes, or rattling from the suspension can signal worn, loose or failing components. Although the vehicle may continue to run, ignoring these noises can lead to more serious mechanical issues and higher repair costs. Early inspection can help prevent further damage. Squealing or grinding noises can signal mechanical problems that need attention. A high-pitched squeal is often caused by a worn or misaligned serpentine belt, which powers components such as the alternator, power steering pump and air-conditioning compressor.

Full efficiency dropA noticeable increase in fuel consumption can indicate an underlying issue. A sudden or gradual decline in mileage is often linked to clogged air or fuel filters, poor engine tuning or faulty sensors, while factors such as incorrect tyre pressure or worn spark plugs can also raise fuel use. Even if the car appears to drive normally, lower efficiency suggests the engine is not operating optimally. Early inspection can help identify the cause, improve mileage and prevent further mechanical problems.Fluid leaksVisible fluid leaks beneath a vehicle indicate a problem that needs attention. Different fluids point to different faults, and ignoring them can result in serious damage. Coolant leaks are among the most critical, as they can cause the engine to overheat and lead to severe damage if not addressed. Such leaks are commonly linked to cracked hoses, faulty water pumps or radiator issues.

Oil leaks can also cause long-term harm by reducing engine lubrication, increasing wear and affecting performance, with extreme cases leading to engine seizure. These are usually caused by worn gaskets, damaged seals or leaks from the oil pan. Transmission fluid leaks can affect gear shifting and drivability, potentially resulting in transmission failure. These leaks typically occur due to damaged seals, gaskets or internal components. Any fluid leak should be checked promptly to prevent expensive repairs and maintain safe vehicle operation.

Difficulty in starting or frequent stallingProblems starting the car or unexpected stalling often indicate an underlying fault. Delayed cranking, rough idling or the engine cutting off can be linked to a weak battery, fuel delivery issues or ignition system problems. These symptoms may appear intermittently at first but can worsen over time and lead to breakdowns if left unaddressed. Early inspection can help identify the issue and avoid reliability and safety risks.