5 Car Repairs Everyone Should Know for Emergency Situations
No car is without its problems. Unfortunately, car trouble can pop up at any moment and, in an emergency situation, there are some things you should know that can save you a lot of stress. That said, there are certain car repairs every driver should know how to perform on their own. Here they are.
1. Changing a Flat Tire
A flat tire can leave you stranded, but knowing how to change it yourself can get you back on the road quickly. Start by pulling over to a safe location, turning on your hazard lights, and engaging the parking brake. Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car, then remove the nuts completely and take off the damaged tire. Align the spare tire, tighten the lug nuts by hand, and lower the car before fully securing the nuts with the wrench.
2. Jump-Starting a Dead Battery
Another common emergency people run into is issues with their car battery. A dead battery is one of the most common car issues, but jump-starting it is easier than you think. First, park another vehicle with a working battery close to yours, ensuring both cars are off. Attach the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of your dead battery and the other end to the working battery’s positive terminal. Then, connect the black cable to the working battery’s negative terminal and attach the other end to an unpainted metal surface on your car. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes before trying to start your vehicle. Once your engine is running, remove the cables in reverse order and keep your car running for at least 20 minutes to recharge the battery.
3. Fixing an Overheating Engine
An overheating engine can lead to costly repairs if not addressed quickly. If your temperature gauge spikes or steam starts coming from under the hood, pull over immediately and turn off the engine. Let the car cool down for at least 30 minutes before opening the hood to check the coolant level. If it’s low, carefully add coolant or water to the reservoir, but never open a hot radiator cap—it can cause severe burns. Check for leaks under the car, as a broken radiator hose or leaking water pump may require professional repair. If the overheating persists, avoid driving and call for help to prevent engine damage.
4. Replacing a Blown Fuse
A blown fuse can disable essential car functions like headlights, power windows, or even the ignition. Locate your car’s fuse box, usually found under the dashboard or hood, and check the diagram to identify the affected fuse. If the metal strip inside the fuse is broken, it needs to be replaced with a fuse of the same amperage. Keep spare fuses in your car, as they’re inexpensive and easy to replace with just a pair of pliers. If a fuse keeps blowing repeatedly, it could indicate a deeper electrical issue requiring a mechanic’s attention. Knowing how to replace fuses can prevent small problems from turning into bigger inconveniences.
5. Fixing a Stuck Accelerator Pedal
Last, but certainly not least, on the problem list is an accelerator pedal sticking. A stuck pedal is rare but can be terrifying if it happens. If your car suddenly accelerates uncontrollably, stay calm and shift into neutral immediately to disengage the engine from the wheels. Avoid turning off the engine while driving, as it could disable power steering and brakes. Instead, apply firm and steady pressure to the brakes while steering to a safe location. Once stopped, turn off the engine and inspect the pedal for obstructions, such as floor mats or debris. If the problem isn’t obvious, call for professional assistance before driving again.
Be Prepared for Anything on the Road
It’s true that modern vehicles are more reliable than ever. Fewer problems will pop up, as long as you stick to your regular maintenance schedule. That said, knowing how to perform some of these emergency car repairs can help you stay safe on the road. Make sure you carry basic tools with you at all times and know how to do these repairs. It’ll save you a lot of stress in the long run.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.