Repairing your car is an unavoidable part of owning these highly complex and sophisticated machines. For those that have no experience working on these vehicles, this can seem like an impossible topic to ever understand, but this does not have to be the case because you may be able to greatly expand your understanding of auto repairs by having these two questions answered. In addition making you a more informed consumer, this knowledge may also help to take some of the mystery and stress out of keeping your car running. 

What Causes Your Engine's Oxygen Sensors To Start Experiencing Problems?

Modern engines use a variety of complex computer controls to ensure the engine works as efficiently as possible. This often means closely monitoring the fuel to oxygen ratio to ensure that the perfect balance is struck. 

When the oxygen sensor starts to malfunction, it can cause the performance of your engine to seriously suffer. In fact, this problem may become so severe that the car may be undrivable. There can be any number of reasons for this problem, but failure to properly change the air filters on a regular basis can play a major role. A clogged air filter will inhibit the flow of oxygen, which forces the engine to work much harder to move the vehicle. This can substantially increase the wear on the engine, which can lead to the oxygen sensor failing. 

Does Fluid Leaking From The Bottom Of The Car Indicate A Serious Issue?

One day, you may notice that there is a fluid dripping out of the bottom of your car. This may be alarming, but it could potentially be a routine issue. For example, this may be nothing more than condensation from the air conditioner. In other instances, this fluid may be vital to the engine, and this leak will have to be stopped immediately. 

To determine whether this dripping is something that you should be seriously worried about, you should gently move the car from the parking spot and inspect the fluid. If it is clear with no noticeable odor, it is most likely condensation, but if it exhibits any color or has a strong smell, you should take your car to an auto repair shop before the engine suffers serious damage due to a lack of vital fluids. 

A malfunctioning automobile may be an extremely stressful experience, but you can calm many of these stresses by increasing your understanding about auto problems and repairs. If you understand what can contribute to an oxygen sensor failing and how to interpret fluid leaking out of your parked car, you should be in a stronger position to keep your car safe from major repair costs.