Quick Fixes & Survival Tips For Car Issues Every Driver Must Know

Nayra Jain

Oct 9, 2025

Engine Overheating

If your engine overheats, stop immediately and switch off the AC. Open the hood carefully and allow the engine to cool for 15–20 minutes. Check coolant levels and refill if needed, but never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.

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Flat Tyre On The Road

Keep a spare tyre, jack, and wrench handy. Move your car to a safe spot, loosen the lug nuts, lift the car with the jack, remove the flat tyre, and replace it with the spare. Tighten nuts securely before driving slowly to a nearby service station.

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Dead Battery

If your car battery dies, use jumper cables and another vehicle to jump-start it. Connect positive to positive and negative to negative, start the donor vehicle, then your car. Keep your engine running to recharge the battery fully.

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Brake Issues

If brakes feel soft, check brake fluid levels first. Pump the brake pedal gently to build pressure. If the brakes fail completely, use the handbrake carefully, downshift to lower gears, and steer safely to a stop without sudden movements.

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Fuel Shortage

Always keep your fuel tank above a quarter. If you run low, switch off unnecessary electricals, drive at a steady speed, and reach the nearest fuel station. Carry a small, approved fuel can for emergencies when travelling in remote areas.

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Engine Warning Light

When the engine warning light comes on, reduce speed and avoid heavy acceleration. Stop safely to inspect under the hood. If you’re unsure, call roadside assistance to prevent damage while on Indian roads.

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Alternator Problems

If electrical systems dim or fail, your alternator may be faulty. Turn off non-essential electrical devices and avoid using the car for long until repaired. Have your battery and alternator checked at the nearest authorised service centre.

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Stuck Accelerator

If the accelerator sticks, shift to neutral immediately and gently apply brakes. Turn off the engine only when the car is safely stopped. Inspect the pedal area and throttle cable before resuming driving.

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Cooling System Leak

Steam or coolant under the car indicates a leak. Do not continue driving. Switch off the engine, let it cool, and top up coolant if minor. For major leaks, call a mechanic or tow the car to a service station to avoid engine damage.

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Headlight Or Taillight Failure

If lights fail at night, turn on hazard indicators and slow down. Use mobile torch temporarily to signal. Replace bulbs as soon as possible. Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your car kit for emergencies on Indian roads.

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Thanks For Reading!

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