When you buy a car, you’re not thinking about the problems down the road. Instead, you’re picturing the wind in your hair, you’re looking forward to playing with the new amenities, and you’re excited to show off your purchase to your friends. The last thing on your mind is the amount of maintenance you’re going to go through to keep the vehicle in perfect condition.
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You’ll have to do plenty in the coming years. According to research from IMR Inc., the most common maintenance services—and the ones you’ll likely roll into a dealership for—are:
- Oil/oil filter change
- Wiper blades replacement
- Replace air filter
- Scheduled maintenance
- New tires
But maintenance isn’t all you need to think about. Thanks to each car’s unique design, every vehicle has its own tendencies to wear out a certain way.
One model may be known for its distinctive grill that inadvertently causes the vehicle to overheat, while another may have a reputation for leaking oil as a result of a manufacturer error. This isn’t common knowledge, so learning about this information can help you determine if you’ve purchased a “lemon.”
What to Watch For: Before the Purchase
To prevent this, do your research before you buy. A salesperson may tell you one thing, but impartial magazine and internet reviews may tell you something entirely different. At Robison Lemon Law Group, we’ve rounded up the most common issues for different makes and models.
You can also try a little legwork. Research complaints and recalls for the model year. Knowing what problems other people have experienced may help you make a better, informed decision as a consumer.
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, bring a friend with automotive expertise to inspect your car before purchasing.
What to Watch For: After the Purchase
Before driving off the lot, get cozy in the driver’s seat and read through the owner’s manual to better understand the car’s nuances. This is especially important if you’ve purchased a used car. Worn parts may exacerbate existing issues, creating safety hazards.
Be sure to note:
- The manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure
- TThe manufacturer’s recommended oil type
- TWhere the fluid intakes are located
- TWhat all the warning signs on the dashboard mean
Breaking down is the last thing on your mind immediately after your purchase, but this knowledge will assist you greatly in the event of an emergency, and you’ll be better equipped to respond to a problem before it turns into a costly issue.
As you drive, beware some of the most common issues we see:
- Alignment problems
- Alternator problems
- Bluetooth problems
- Brake problems
- Check engine light problems
- Clutch problems
- Electrical problems
- Engine problems
- Gearbox problems
- Hesitation
- Rattling
- Shuddering
- Steering problems
- Transmission problems
- Turbo problems
- Vibration
Understanding how each hazard looks and feels will give you more confidence behind the wheel and alert you to emerging issues.
Protections in Place for You
If you’ve mistakenly purchased a faulty vehicle, you may be protected under your state’s lemon law or breach of warranty statutes. Robison Lemon Law Group LLC can help you navigate both the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and used car lemon laws to ensure you that your rights are protected. Our experienced legal team will work with you to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Find Out if YOU Qualify for the Lemon Law
Not sure if your car, truck, or motorcycle is a lemon? Find out in seconds using our lemon checker.
Did you buy your car new or used?