Dim headlights, a shaky steering wheel, green puddles in your driveway, just what is your car trying to tell you? Missing early warning signs could result in costly repairs or you could even end up stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. Here are some warning signs you should never ignore.

Odometer - This is a maintenance reminder to let you know it is time for service. Minor service should be performed every 7,500 miles and major service every 30,000 miles. Regular oil changes are you best defense against engine wear. Do not forget to check on your transmission, cooling system and brake fluid on a regular basis.

Tires - Abnormal wear can occur when tires are improperly inflated or the wheels are out of alignment. Excessive wear at the center of the tire indicates that the tire is over inflated while undue wear at the outer edges is caused by under-inflation. Wear on only one side or feathering can be caused by incorrect wheel alignment.

Shimmy and Shake - Shaking may be caused by poor tire/wheel balance. Pulling may be caused by low or badly worn tires or incorrect alignment. Wandering can occur when the front suspension is loose or worn. Excessive bouncing may be caused by worn shocks/struts.

Dim Lights/Poor Starting - Both of these issues may be the sign of a weak battery or possible charging system fault. Check for corroded battery terminals or a loose alternator belt. Batteries should last three to four years in a warm climate and longer where the weather is cool. Make sure that your battery is properly mounted and charged.

Fluid Colors - Burned or discolored fluids must be changed. Milky engine oil (coolant and oil mixed) can result from an internal gasket failure or component crack and must be repaired immediately.

Leaks - The color of your puddle will identify its source. Watery green or orange fluid is most likely engine coolant and must be taken seriously. Coolant loss can lead to overheating. Leaking red fluid can come from the transmission, the 4x4 transfer case or the power steering or radiator. Clear water on the ground is condensation from the A/C system and is normal. A windshield that fogs up badly or wetness on the passenger side carpet usually indicates a heater core problem and should be attended to immediately.

Odors - A rotten egg smell coming from the catalytic converter may be caused by an excessively rich air-fuel ratio or misfire. A dirty sock odor in the ventilation system is caused by fungus buildup in the under-dash A/C evaporator. Professional treatment works best, but home remedies can bring temporary relief.

Gauges & Lights - Gauges that read out of the recommended range and illuminated warning lights are a sure sign of trouble. A red oil, temperature or brake light means stop driving now, while a yellow check engine or ABS light means check into this soon.

Noises - Engine pinging (usually worse during acceleration on hot days) is caused by abnormal combustion and can lead to serious damage if it happens frequently. Squealing brakes may be caused by vibration of the disc brake pads, but a deeper grinding sound says that you are destroying your rotors.

Paying close attention to your vehicle will help to insure it a long life and pleasant rides for many years to come.

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