What are the common diagnostic methods for car faults?
2 Answers
Common diagnostic methods for car faults include: 1. Touch method, used to diagnose overheating of mechanical parts, looseness, and pulsation of high-pressure fuel pipes; 2. Sensory method, applied when the car deviates while driving, the turn signal does not light up, the exhaust pipe backfires or emits black smoke, or the tire bursts; 3. Trial method, if the engine cylinders are not working properly, the method of cutting off the ignition or fuel supply to each cylinder one by one can be used to locate the issue; 4. Comparison method, replacing with new spark plugs or injectors and comparing them with the original ones; 5. Test method, for issues like car wobbling or uneven tire wear, specialized tests and instrument checks are needed to identify and eliminate the cause.
I've been driving for half my life, and diagnosing car problems shouldn't be based on wild guesses. Usually start with the simplest things: listen for any abnormal engine noises, like a clicking sound which might indicate bearing issues; sniff for any burnt smells - if it's too strong, there might be a short circuit; check if any warning lights on the dashboard are on, like the engine light which signals potential problems. Then inspect basic fluid levels: pull out the dipstick to check the oil, see if the coolant in the reservoir is low, and whether the tire pressure is normal. If you're still puzzled, it's time to rely on tools - buy an OBD scanner, plug it into the port to read fault codes, and use a mobile app to check the cause without wasting money. Don't take safety lightly; if you notice a problem, pull over immediately to avoid turning a small issue into a major repair. Regular maintenance like oil and air filter changes can also reduce trouble. Experience tells me that early detection brings peace of mind and prevents delays in your journey.
