Blog Layout

4 Signs You Need to Schedule Vehicle Maintenance Service

MDP Diesel & Auto • Aug 15, 2023

Maintenance is a standard part of owning any vehicle, but many drivers aren’t sure how often to have their vehicle serviced. Far too often, they wait until there are major issues with their vehicle to reach out to a professional. Although we’re always here to get the job done, we’re also eager to help you recognize the early signs you need vehicle maintenance to avoid costly repairs down the road.


If you experience any of these four signs, please contact us to schedule a service. 

1. Warning Lights

Dashboard warning lights or a check engine light are one of the most obvious signs you need vehicle maintenance, and they are certainly not something you should ever ignore. These warning lights can help you take preventative action. 

Most vehicles will actually display the word “SERVICE” on your dashboard if something is wrong with your vehicle. More advanced models even include service reminders to help you stay up-to-date with oil changes, filter replacements, and more. 

If you ever notice a warning light on your dashboard, it’s best to contact a professional right away. 

2. Dripping Liquid or Noticeable Leaks

If you find any liquid dripping from your vehicle or even whole puddles forming beneath it, you need to schedule a service immediately. Whether it’s an oil or transmission leak, both can spell serious trouble for your vehicle’s engine without immediate attention from a mechanic.

While some leaking is expected, such as condensation from your vehicle’s air conditioning system in the summer, colored fluid is one of the greatest signs you need vehicle maintenance. 

Dark fluid indicates an oil or transmission fluid leak, so it’s best to schedule a service and have your vehicle inspected by a trained mechanic rather than attempting DIY repairs.

3. Vibrations

Another one of the most common signs you need vehicle maintenance is noticeable vibrations in your vehicle. These could be intense or subtle; some may happen all the time, while others only occur at low or high speeds. 

Some vibrations can indicate an issue with the engine, such as a loose or worn engine mount, while others may signal trouble with your steering and suspension system.

Whatever the case may be, it’s best to have a professional address these issues and get to the root cause of the problem.

4. Problems Braking

Whenever your brakes feel loose, wobbly, or non-responsive, you should seek immediate service from a professional auto repair shop. Nothing is more important than your safety, and faulty brakes are a major hazard for you and other drivers on the road.

One of the most popular signs you need vehicle maintenance is difficulty breaking, which is most often caused by worn brake pads. Brake pads need to be replaced around every 30,000 miles, but some models may need to have their brake pads replaced more frequently, especially if you drive on rough terrain or handle your vehicle intensely. 

Get Expert Vehicle Maintenance Service in Jackson, MI

Visit us at MDP Diesel & Auto to schedule your next vehicle maintenance service with one of our skilled technicians. We deliver exceptional customer service and reliable repairs that will keep your vehicle safe and well-maintained. Contact us today to book your service appointment.

A mechanic is working on a car engine with a wrench.
24 Apr, 2024
Discover expert 6.7L Powerstroke diesel repairs at MDP Diesel & Auto Repair in Jackson, MI. Trust your local experts for superior service. Schedule an online appointment now!
diesel repair
29 Feb, 2024
Discover expert tips on enhancing your Cummins diesel engine's performance with MDP Diesel & Auto Repair in Jackson, MI. Learn about maintenance, upgrades, and more for optimal efficiency and power.
car repair service
09 Jan, 2024
Trust our skilled mechanics in Jackson, MI, to diagnose and repair daunting car issues like starting problems, overheating, and rough idling. Contact us for expert automotive repair solutions.
engine light on
09 Jan, 2024
Experiencing a check engine light in Jackson, MI? MDP Diesel & Auto offers professional diagnostics and repair. Contact us to resolve common causes like loose gas caps, oxygen sensor failure, and more.
diesel repair service
09 Jan, 2024
Suspect glow plug issues in your diesel vehicle? MDP Diesel & Auto in Jackson, MI, offers expert diagnostics and repairs for rough idling, misfires, starting problems, and more. Contact us today.
Wheel Alignment
By MDP Diesel & Auto 15 Jul, 2023
While auto repair varies from vehicle to vehicle, there are certain services that are nearly impossible to do without. On top of just taking your vehicle to the shop whenever you suspect an issue, there are five important auto repair or maintenance services you will need to stay on top of to ensure your vehicle’s […] The post The Top 5 Auto Repair Services You’ll Need in Your Lifetime appeared first on MDP Diesel.
By MDP Diesel & Auto 15 Jun, 2023
Apart from tire repairs and replacements, getting regular tire services is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. At MDP Diesel & Auto, we provide professional tire services performed by our certified automotive technicians to optimize your tire and wheel assembly’s safety and performance on the road. In this blog post, you’ll find more information about […] The post Tire Services: The Benefits of Regular Alignment, Balancing, and Rotation appeared first on MDP Diesel.
 An auto mechanic performs work on installing a torque converter
By MDP Diesel & Auto 15 Jul, 2022
The torque converter in your car or truck serves an essential purpose. It converts the engine’s power from rotary to linear power, allowing the wheels to turn and move the vehicle forward. Unfortunately, suppose you don’t have a properly functioning torque converter. That can significantly impact performance because your vehicle’s engine power will not efficiently […] The post Why You Need to Know About Torque Converters appeared first on MDP Diesel.
the headlights of a car
By MDP Diesel & Auto 01 Jul, 2022
Car headlights are one of the most important safety features on a vehicle. They allow drivers to see the road in front of them and help other drivers see the car from a distance. Headlights are typically made from a glass or plastic lens that covers a light bulb. Here is what to know about […] The post What to Know About Your Car’s Headlights appeared first on MDP Diesel.
Coolant Leak
By MDP Diesel & Auto 15 Jun, 2022
A coolant leak can be one of the most frustrating issues you experience as a car owner. Coolant leaks need to be addressed because eventually, low coolant will cause your engine to overheat, potentially causing significant damage to your engine, not to mention leaving you with an expensive repair bill. Keep in mind that if […] The post 3 Most Common Causes of Coolant Leaks (and What to do About it)! appeared first on MDP Diesel.
More Posts
Share by: