Five Common Car Problems and How to Fix Them with Parts from O'Reilly Auto Parts

Yulia Chive

3 min read

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10-01-2025

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Five Common Car Problems and How to Fix Them with Parts from O'Reilly Auto Parts

Keeping your car running smoothly can sometimes feel like a battle against entropy. Suddenly, that familiar hum transforms into a concerning rattle, a light flickers ominously, or your engine starts making strange noises. Fear not! Many common car problems are easily addressed with a little DIY know-how and the right parts. This guide focuses on five frequently encountered issues and shows how O'Reilly Auto Parts can help you get back on the road.

1. Dead Battery: The Silent Killer

A dead battery is the ultimate car killer, leaving you stranded and frustrated. Several factors contribute to battery failure, including age, extreme temperatures, and parasitic drain (electrical components drawing power even when the car is off).

Symptoms: Dim headlights, slow engine cranking, or complete failure to start.

O'Reilly Solution: Head to your local O'Reilly Auto Parts and grab a replacement battery. They offer a wide range of batteries to fit various makes and models. Be sure to check your car's manual for the correct battery size and type (group size and CCA – Cold Cranking Amps). O'Reilly's team can assist you in finding the perfect fit. They also offer battery testing services to determine if your current battery is salvageable or needs replacing.

2. Worn-Out Wiper Blades: Impaired Visibility

Streaky, smeary windshields are more than just annoying; they're dangerous. Worn wiper blades reduce visibility, especially in rain or snow, increasing the risk of accidents. Replacing them is a simple, inexpensive fix.

Symptoms: Streaking, chattering, or skipping across the windshield. Inconsistent wiping action.

O'Reilly Solution: O'Reilly stocks a vast selection of wiper blades, from basic replacements to high-performance options with features like aerodynamic designs and improved rubber compounds for better clearing and longer life. Find the right size for your vehicle – again, your owner's manual is your best friend – and choose the blade type that best suits your needs and budget.

3. Failing Headlights: Illuminate the Path

Burned-out headlights aren't just a traffic violation; they severely compromise your nighttime visibility and safety. Regularly check your headlights and replace them promptly when needed.

Symptoms: One or both headlights are not working. Dim or flickering headlights.

O'Reilly Solution: O'Reilly carries a full range of headlights, from standard bulbs to high-intensity discharge (HID) and LED options. Ensure you get the correct bulb type (Halogen, HID, LED) and wattage specified in your owner's manual. O'Reilly's staff can guide you in choosing the right bulbs for your vehicle and demonstrate safe replacement techniques.

4. Troublesome Tail Lights: Be Seen, Be Safe

Like headlights, functioning taillights are crucial for safety, particularly at night. Faulty taillights can lead to accidents due to reduced visibility for drivers behind you.

Symptoms: One or more taillights are not working. Dim or flickering taillights.

O'Reilly Solution: Similar to headlights, O'Reilly has a variety of taillight bulbs available. Again, consult your owner's manual for the correct bulb type and wattage. If the problem isn't simply a burned-out bulb, O'Reilly's knowledgeable staff can help you diagnose more complex issues.

5. Squeaky Brakes: A Warning Sign

Squeaking brakes are a clear sign that your brake pads are wearing down. Ignoring this warning can lead to brake failure, a potentially catastrophic event.

Symptoms: High-pitched squealing or grinding noise when braking. Reduced braking effectiveness.

O'Reilly Solution: O'Reilly offers a wide selection of brake pads, rotors, and other brake components. While brake replacement is a more complex task, O'Reilly's staff can help you identify the correct parts for your vehicle and direct you to resources or professionals for installation if needed. They can also provide guidance on proper brake maintenance to extend the lifespan of your braking system.

Conclusion:

By proactively addressing these common car problems and utilizing the resources and parts available at O'Reilly Auto Parts, you can maintain your vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. Remember, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are key to avoiding more serious and costly issues down the road. O'Reilly is your partner in keeping your car running smoothly!