Safety-critical systems
These systems directly affect your ability to stop, steer, see and survive a crash. Repairs on them belong with a qualified mechanic or a specialist:
| System | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Pads, rotors, calipers, lines and fluid all affect stopping distance and control |
| Steering and suspension | Worn or loose parts can affect control at speed or cause a part to separate |
| Tires and wheels | Tread, pressure, damage and correctly tightened wheel nuts affect grip and stability |
| Airbags and seat belts | Airbags contain explosive inflators and can deploy during careless work |
| Fuel system | Pressurized, flammable fuel creates a fire risk |
| High-voltage systems | Hybrid and electric cars carry voltages that can kill |
| Lights and visibility | Working lights and wipers let you see and be seen |
Signs you should stop driving
Pull over somewhere safe, turn off the engine and get help if you notice any of these:
- A brake pedal that sinks to the floor, feels soft, or a red brake warning light that stays on.
- Steering that suddenly becomes very heavy, loose or pulls hard to one side.
- A temperature gauge in the red or steam from under the hood.
- A red oil pressure warning light.
- A strong smell of fuel, or smoke from anywhere on the car.
- A flashing check engine light, which often signals a fault that can damage the engine or exhaust system.
- Loud grinding, clunking or knocking that is new or getting worse.
Your owner's manual explains what each dashboard warning light means for your car. If you are not sure the car is safe, have it towed rather than driven.
Safe habits for simple jobs
- Read the owner's manual section for the job before you start.
- Work on a cool engine, with the car off and the key or fob away from the car.
- Wear eye protection, and gloves when handling fluids or batteries.
- Raise the car only at the marked lift points and support it on rated jack stands, never on a jack alone.
- Keep loose clothing, hair and hands away from belts and the cooling fan, which can start on its own on some cars.
- Store and dispose of oil, coolant, batteries and other fluids properly. Keep them away from children and pets.
- If something doesn't look like the manual or the job gets harder than expected, stop and ask a professional.
Finding a qualified mechanic
Dealers, independent shops and specialists can all do good work. Ask whether the technicians hold recognized certifications for the kind of repair, how the shop warranties its work, and whether you will get a written estimate before work begins. Clear answers to those questions are a good sign.
Recalls
Vehicle makers issue recalls when a safety defect is found. Recall repairs are free at the dealer. In the United States you can check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Other countries have their own official recall lookups through their transport authorities.
Our guides give general information only. For anything that affects braking, steering, visibility or crash safety, rely on a qualified mechanic and your owner's manual.