Top 10 common problems in unsafe autos

Posted by Csavage Published in Car How To's, Safety

The Top 10 common problems in unsafe cars are enumerated below according to it’s importance:

1. Brakes - these should have the capability to stop the vehicle within the ideal distance at any given speed. The tires must not lock to avoid swerving. Under any load, the brakes should be capable of stopping the vehicle without the brakes overheating. Brake fluid level must not go below minimum and no leaks, brake pads or linings must be in good condition, brake discs or drums must not be scoured and rubber cups well maintained. The hand brake or emergency brake must be fully functional.

2. Seatbelts and Airbags - seatbelts harness should be used at all times when driving. To test seatbelts, give it a sudden jerk to see if works on emergency or sudden stops. Release button should work easily and effortlessly so in case of an accident, passengers and driver could get out at the soonest time possible. For airbags, make sure that it has not been removed in place of an accessory, especially on the front passenger side and doors.

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3. Shock Absorbers - should be firm and bounce only once or twice when installed and tested in the car. Springs and torsion bars assist only on the smooth ride of the vehicle. It stabilizes the up and down movement of the car. Worn out shock absorbers will make a car bounce uncontrollably.

4. Springs and Torsion bars - should not sag under normal laden weight of the car. It helps ease the load and prevent excessive movements on the shock absorbers.

5. Tires - should have at least one-fourth tread life for proper traction. It should not have been through several vulcanizing and has minimal sidewall damage. Tire sidewalls are weaker and more easily punctured. It does not have the same ply as the tire treads. Tread wear should be even, no feathering and/or cupping. Finally and most importantly would be the right tire pressure on all tires. This could cause the car to wander and uncontrollable under some circumstances.

6. Steering Assembly the steering wheel should not have a free-play of more than one (1) inch. For power steering, steering fluid must be checked and topped at all times. Fan belt for steering pump must be in the correct or manufacturers specifications.

7. Ball Joints, Tie-rod ends and Bushings these should always be checked for looseness as it will affect the steering and handling of the car. If one or any comes loose while driving, control over the car is lost. Worn out bushings are sometimes not easily detected and needs disassembly to check on their condition. They easily contribute to the wear and tear of ball joints, tie-rods and shock absorbers.

8. Electrical wiring and Fuses should always be neat and easily identifiable for troubleshooting. Bare spliced or chafed wires should always be covered to avoid short-circuits or other electrical problems.

9. Fuel Tank and lines should always be checked to ensure non-leakage. Remember, it is not the liquid state of gasoline that easily catches fire, it is the fume mixed with air that is easily combustible.

10. Front Hood and Door Latches should always be made sure to be aligned and close properly. There are safety measures for them not to just open but under some driving conditions they could just open and cause accidents.