Incidents of cars catching fire are not new to India. It is very important that the owners keep tabs on these incidents and ensure special care to the vehicles to avoid such disasters.
Listed below are some of the most common reasons a car catches fire:
- After Market Accessories
Many people use after-market accessories such as head-lamps, stereos, reverse parking sensors, and security systems. Sometimes, workers may snap one of the wires while working on fitment which goes undetected till it short circuits.
- Unauthorized Kits
Since all manufacturers do not offer factory fitted CNG/LPG kits, people buy it from unauthorized dealers. This makes the car vulnerable to leaks and increases the chances of the car catching fire.
- Unrecognized Workshops
Post free services from the car manufacturer, customers try to visit workshops with no guarantee of skilled labor. This makes car prone to more damage as exposed wires or unfastened bolt may result in disasters.
- Design Flaw
This is quite rare, yet a possible way of a car catching fire. It may be a fault of manufacturers itself. Cars reported with such cases are rectified by the company. Always keep a check on such complaints.
- Crashes
This is a very dangerous reason. Accidents may puncture the fuel tank or other part of the vehicle and result in fire immediately.
- Lack of Maintenance
Most people neglect this aspect. Make sure the vehicles are checked and serviced at regular intervals. Vehicles have different service intervals. Check with the manufacturer to remain steady.
- Overheated Catalytic Converters
Tremendous amount of heat is generated through catalytic converters and exhaust system of the car. The heat tends to melt plastic body parts such as the side skirts and bumpers which may lead to a disastrous ball of fire. Always keep your vehicle checked at regular intervals, especially before long journeys. Most of the aftermarket bumpers and body kits are risky. These tend to cut down air supply needed to keep hot parts cooler. So always buy from authorized dealers.
- Leaking Fluids
When the engine is running, fluids (coolant and oil) may rise to very high temperatures. The fluids may spill and come in contact with hotter parts of the engine and plastic parts of the vehicle. This is enough to catch a fire. The best thing to do is to ensure reservoirs and hoses containing liquids are damage free and sealed really well.
- Overheated Engine
The issue is serious. As soon as the engine overheats, the boiling liquids may leak and get in touch with other parts of the vehicle and cause fire. No wonder experts believe that most fire incidents of car are caused due to negligence or ignorance. If your car isn’t maintained well, issues with engine may crop and overheat it causing leakage of fluids. This ultimately results in a huge ball of fire.
- Electricals
This is known to be a very common problem. Experts believe that it is the main culprit in most fire accidents. Many things happen in car with respect to electrical. Your car uses current from the battery and generates electricity that charges battery. Hence, a number of wires are involved in this process. According to auto industry news in Hindi, any naked or worn out live wire will cause a fire which may turn out to be a huge disaster. All wires should be properly insulated. Also get these checked in order to avoid a fire accident.
- Leakage of Fuel
Fuel is a highly flammable substance. When it comes in contact with metal, plastic, rubber or anything else, expect disaster. Hence, you need to make sure the fuel line is not leaking. Also avoid squeezing more fuel than your vehicle needs. Do not keep anything flammable near your car.
- Smoking in Vehicle
Although this may not sound dangerous, but even a small spark may end up in smoke and a he ball of fire. The best thing to do is pull over, move out of the car and then smoke. Little precautions can go a long way.
