Automotive breakdowns are an underrated hazard on the roadway, and more people need to pay attention to the signs their cars are giving them. According to the American Automobile Association, brake system failures cause over 235,000 vehicles to be towed every year. If your car breaks down on the highway, you are in immediate danger. Even if you get to the shoulder before things fail, your vehicle breaking down still puts you in danger of losing your life if another driver is not paying attention.

If your car has broken down, stay inside your car. Even though your instinct may be to get out, you shouldn't. Today's cars are tightly packed in, and even trained mechanics are sometimes hard-pressed to see a problem without the assistance of diagnostic computers. But here are signs that you should get auto repairs sooner than later.

1. Your Check Engine Light or Other Diagnostic Lights Are Lit

This is almost a no-brainer. The check engine light can signify anything from a loose hose in the engine compartment to a loose or missing gas cap, coolant failure, or imminent engine failure. Although the check engine light is vague, and most times relates to a missing or loose gas cap, it should be checked as soon as it appears.

2. The Steering or Braking Become Sluggish

This isn't so much a sign that you should get auto repairs done but a flashing railroad crossing light. The sluggish performance of your vehicle's steering and brakes can originate from several causes, but none of them are good and all of them should get checked out immediately.

3. The Suspension Feels Different

A suddenly stiffer or much mushier suspension than you're used to is a sign that you have springs and shocks that need to be examined and probably replaced. If your vehicle is suddenly pulling off to one side, you should probably get your alignment checked as well.

4. The Exhaust Produces Smoke

Normally, your exhaust should be mostly nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, all of which are odorless and colorless. Black and white smoke are warning signs. Smelly smoke is an especially big warning sign for auto repairs.

If any of these signs apply to your car or the car of someone you're close to, make sure you see a mechanic soon. Repairing your car after rather than before it breaks down is more expensive. Contact Armory Shell Towing & Auto Body today to get started.