According to recent statistics, the average car on roads today in the United States is 11.5 years old, meaning a good portion of the vehicles on the road could be considered old. While an older car can still work perfectly fine, over time the vehicle can start to experience issues that need to be addressed by an auto repair shop. If you have an older car, it's important to watch out for some common issues that can occur. Here are four common issues owners of old cars need to have handled by professional mechanics.

1. Oil Leaks

One of the most common issues for older cars is oil leaks. Over time, auto parts can wear down, resulting in the engine oil leaking. It can be a small leak, or it can be a larger one that requires more auto repair work. One common sign of an oil leak is finding pools of oil underneath your car when parked. Be sure to bring your vehicle into a professional repair shop when you notice these puddles to prevent the issue from growing worse.

2. Brake Issues

Your brakes can be one of the most important auto repair issues that you need to address. Brake pads and rotors tend to wear out with time and use, so if you find yourself needing to press harder on the brake pedal for it to react appropriately, this could indicate a problem. The best way to address brake issues is to take your car to a trusted auto repair shop.

3. Battery Problems

Another auto repair issue you may experience with an older car is battery problems. The battery can go bad and require replacement, or the terminals may need cleaning. The first sign of this problem is when your car has trouble starting or the battery light comes on. Be sure to make your mechanic aware of these issues when they arise.

4. Timing Belts Wearing Out

The timing belts are responsible for controlling the camshaft and crankshaft and ensuring they move in sync. As time passes, these auto parts can start to wear down, resulting in the vehicle losing power or not running at all. Get it checked at your auto repair shop as soon as you notice these issues. If you don't, you can end up with a much bigger repair bill later on.

Having an older car doesn't mean it won't work properly. However, being aware of common auto repair issues can help you plan for what needs to be done and when. Bring your car to Twin Ports Diesel & Auto if you need any help. Our experts know how to detect these issues and put in the work to have your car functioning properly.