Vans are built to handle demanding journeys and heavy loads. But even the most reliable vehicle can run into a few problems. It can come as a result of age or general wear and tear. However, regardless of how the problem occurred, you must identify the issue and have it fixed promptly. In this article, we’re going to be giving you a few warning signs that your van requires urgent attention. So, read on to see when you should seek professional advice and repairs:
1. Warning lights are on the dashboard
The first sign that something is wrong with your van is that a warning light will illuminate. If this is the case, then it shouldn’t be ignored. In fact, your van will most likely fail its MOT if there’s a warning light present.
If you do see a light on the dashboard, then you should book your van in for professional inspection. A competent mechanical specialist, like the ones we have here at VanServ, will be able to quickly diagnose and resolve the problem.
2. There are some strange noises
If you’re experiencing new or unusual noises, then it signals something is wrong. Abnormal noises are often the first indication that there’s a problem. But the question here is where that problem itself lies.
Grinding, knocking, squealing, rattling or whining sounds can come from one of several components. The affected parts could include: brakes, engine, gearbox, suspension, or the drive system.
A noise that becomes louder or more frequent should be treated as a priority. As such, you should not continue to drive the vehicle. This is because the problem could worsen with repeated use. This avoids unnecessary downtime and associated costs.
3. It’s difficult to steer or handle
If your van suddenly becomes difficult to handle or steer, or if it pulls to one side, feels unstable around corners or develops excessive vibrations, then arrange an inspection as soon as possible with a component professional, such as us here at VanServ.
The cause of such problems could be anything from worn tyres, wheel misalignment, suspension problems or steering rack components. As these systems are directly connected to vehicle control, handling problems shouldn’t be dismissed as a minor inconvenience.
Instead, have the vehicle inspected promptly and make sure any necessary repairs are made to ensure safety and vehicle performance. This also reduces downtime, which is important if you rely on your van to do your job.
4. You have issues with the brakes
Brake problems can be extremely dangerous. As such, they will require attention immediately. Warning signs can include a soft or spongy brake pedal, increased stopping distances, grinding noises when the brakes are applied, vibrations when braking or the vehicle pulling to one side when you slow down ot come to a stop.
If the brakes feel different, then do not continue to drive the van. Instead, book your van in for a professional inspection. This will help to determine whether the issue is caused by worn pads, damaged discs, a hydraulic problem or another fault that may not be readily apparent without thorough investigation.
5. The van is smoking or smells like burning
If smoke is coming from under the bonnet, or if you can smell burning, then the vehicle needs to be inspected promptly. It can indicate several serious issues, such as overheating, an electrical fault, leaking fluids or components that are becoming increasingly hot, all of which have the potential to cause a fire.
If you see smoke, then pull over safely, turn off the engine and seek professional assistance ASAP. Never continue driving the van, even if it appears to run normally. Doing so can cause irreparable damage, as well as run the risk of starting a vehicle fire. This is something that anyone would want to avoid, whether you use your van for work or leisure purposes.
6. Fluid leaks are common
If fluid leaks are common, then it could indicate a problem under the bonnet. The fluid that leaks from your van could be a number of things. The fluid leaking could be engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid or transmission fluid. While some of those leaks may be minor, others can cause irreversible engine damage. Alternatively, some leaks can compromise braking performance, which can be extremely dangerous. If you notice an unfamiliar leak, then it’s best to have the van inspected sooner rather than later. This is for your own safety and the safety of your passengers, if nothing else.
7. Loss of engine power
A noticeable loss of power, torque or acceleration can be caused by a number of different things. From a simple issue to a serious problem, loss of engine power can signal an untold number of parts and components that require inspection. If the van struggles to accelerate, or goes into limp mode, especially when carrying an abnormal load, then it’s worth having the van investigated and subsequently diagnosed as soon as possible.
This is imperative for commercial vehicles that are required to carry heavy loads regularly, or that need to travel long distances on a daily basis. Continuing to drive your van when you’re experiencing a loss of power can worsen the condition of your van even further, so have it looked at by a professional, such as us here at VanServ, before putting it back into your fleet of regularly used vehicles.
8. Excessive vibration
Some vibration when starting or running your van could be down to something simple, like the tyres or mundane wheel misalignment. However, more serious vibrations can originate from the suspension, the steering, the drivetrain or the engine. If your van develops a new vibration, especially if it increases with speed or occurs when the vehicle is braking, then you should arrange for a van inspection as soon as possible.
If you continue to drive a vibrating van, then it can increase wear on the problem area as well as other areas of the chassis, for instance. This can make repairs more complex and more costly as a result. Avoid these unnecessary financial implications by having the initial problem sorted promptly. Not only will this save you money, but it also reduces the vehicle downtime, which is paramount if you rely on the van to make your living.
9. You have difficulty starting the engine
A van that takes several attempts to start up, or that takes too long to turn over, or that repeatedly fails will have an issue with the battery, the starter motor, the alternator, the fuel system or the ignition system. Sometimes, it can mean that there’s a problem with a combination of the aforementioned things.
While it might be tempting to treat starting difficulties as a minor inconvenience, repeated problems will leave you stranded unexpectedly. This is particularly the case if the van is used for commercial purposes or if it’s used for leisure as a motorhome or campervan, for instance.
10. Excessive exhaust smoke is being emitted
A change in the amount of exhaust smoke or even a change of its colour can provide some useful clues as to the overall health and condition of your van. If the aforementioned are accompanied by poor performance, unusual smells or increased fluid consumption, then your van needs to be inspected as soon as possible.
Modern vans have complex exhaust systems, and so diagnosing the problem early on will only help to prevent further, more major damage, helping to avoid costly repairs in the process. The last thing you want for your commercial van is to experience considerable downtime and additional overheads.
VanServ know how important your vehicle is to your livelihood. That’s why we’re pleased to offer a wide range of services, including van servicing, van gearbox repairs and replacements, van clutch repairs and replacements, key cutting and programming, van remapping and more. If you’d like further information about how we can keep your van in top condition, no matter how heavy the load is, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always happy to hear from you.