Top 5 Car Problems We Fix All the Time – And How You Can Avoid Them

If you’ve ever had that sinking feeling when a dashboard light flashes or your car makes an unfamiliar noise, you’re not alone. At Great Lakes Auto Centre in Forster, we see a wide range of vehicle issues every day – and while no two cars are exactly the same, some problems show up more often than others.

These issues often start off small and grow into bigger, more expensive problems if ignored. The good news? Most of them are easy to prevent with a bit of care and regular servicing. So, whether you’re commuting in Forster, heading up the coast for a weekend getaway, or just running errands around town, here are five common car problems we see all the time – and how to avoid them.

1. Worn-Out Brake Pads

Let’s start with one of the most important systems in your car – the brakes. We regularly see vehicles come in with squealing, grinding, or even completely worn-down brake pads. Not only is this dangerous, but it can also damage your rotors, leading to a more costly repair.

Living by the coast, our salty air and stop-start driving conditions can wear brake components down faster than you might expect.

How to avoid it:

Get your brakes checked regularly, especially if you notice a spongy pedal, strange noises, or vibrations. During every service at Great Lakes Auto Centre, we inspect your brakes and let you know if they’re close to needing replacement.

2. Dead or Dying Car Batteries

One of the most common issues we deal with is a flat battery – and it almost always strikes at the worst time. Whether you’re heading to work or planning a road trip, a dead battery can ruin your day.

The harsh Aussie climate, especially in summer, takes a toll on car batteries. If yours is more than three years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its life.

How to avoid it:

We recommend having your battery tested at every service. It’s a quick and simple check that can save you a lot of hassle down the line. We can also fit a replacement on the spot if needed.

3. Engine Oil That’s Past Its Prime

Your car’s engine oil is its lifeblood – it keeps the moving parts lubricated, reduces friction, and helps regulate temperature. But when the oil is dirty or low, it can lead to serious engine damage. We’ve seen engines seize or wear out prematurely due to skipped oil changes.

Surprisingly, this is more common than you’d think – especially for people who don’t drive often and assume their car doesn’t need servicing as frequently.

How to avoid it:

Stick to your logbook servicing schedule, even if you’re not clocking up many kilometres. Time matters just as much as mileage when it comes to oil degradation. If in doubt, give us a call and we’ll let you know what your car needs.

4. Tyres That Have Seen Better Days

Your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road, so it’s no surprise they play a huge role in safety. Unfortunately, many people don’t realise their tyres are worn out until it’s too late.

We often see bald or unevenly worn tyres, which can lead to poor handling, longer braking distances, and even blowouts – especially dangerous in wet weather or at high speeds.

How to avoid it:

Check your tread depth regularly – the legal minimum in NSW is 1.5mm, but we recommend replacing them well before that. Also, keep an eye out for uneven wear, which could signal an issue with your suspension or wheel alignment.

5. Cooling System Leaks

Your car’s cooling system plays a critical role in preventing engine overheating. Small leaks from hoses or radiators might not seem like a big deal, but over time, they can cause your engine to overheat – sometimes with catastrophic results.

We’ve seen vehicles come in with blown head gaskets or warped cylinders, all stemming from an ignored coolant leak.

How to avoid it:

Look for signs like puddles under the car, steam from the bonnet, or a rising temperature gauge. During your service, we always check fluid levels, pressure test your system, and spot small issues before they become big ones.

A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way

At Great Lakes Auto Centre, we believe in catching problems early and giving our customers clear, honest advice. Most of the issues we fix every week could have been avoided with regular servicing and quick action when something doesn’t feel right.

Whether you’re a local in Forster or just visiting, we’re here to help keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and running like a dream.

Need a service or inspection?

We’re proud to serve the local community with expert car care, honest advice, and genuine service. Drop in or book online – we’re always happy to help.