Feb 7, 2025

There are several reasons you need to get an inspection from your Ford dealership on a regular basis, even though yearly car inspections aren’t required here in Michigan (you are required to get a thorough inspection of any salvage vehicle). Here’s some signs that it’s time to get an inspection and see what’s going on in your car.

A Dashboard Warning Light Is On

This is obviously a pretty clear indication that something needs to be checked out. If you schedule regular maintenance appointments at your dealership, however, it’s unlikely you’re going to get too many of these when you least expect them. If you get things checked out as soon as these lights come on, usually you can get a problem fixed before it becomes costly.

The Car’s Leaking

If you’re noticing puddles under your car, or if you find that you’re having to top up your vehicle fluids more often than you should, there’s a leak. Puddles are pretty obvious, but when you’re having to top up even when you don’t see puddles, there’s a chance you’ve got a leak somewhere in the engine. If that’s the case, you might also smell some burning when you initially start the car. If anything is leaking, come see us because your engine or your brakes are being deprived of a fluid needed to ensure that you’re always running efficiently and safely.

Things Sound Weird

You’re used to the way your car sounds, so if your vehicle starts making any noises that you can’t identify, you should get it checked out. Squealing when you brake usually means you need new brake pads, but in some cases, there could also be issues with the rotors. If some of the joints or bearings are starting to get worn out, you might hear a humming sound. Screeching could be one of the belts, and that could become an issue quickly if the belt fails. Whatever the odd sound, get it checked out.

Things Smell Bad

If you’re smelling a rotten egg smell, there could be something wrong with your fuel system or with your catalytic converter. If you smell gasoline or oil, you might have a leak of either or maybe a faulty injector. If you smell burning or electrical odors, the car could be overheating, or you might have a loose belt or hose somewhere.

If you’re noticing any of these signs, or if things just don’t feel right, come see us at Randy Wise Ford in Ortonville, MI right away for help. Our factory-trained techs will make sure your car is in great shape.