If you have auto repair needs, it's up to you to be able to get your car into the auto repair shop as soon as possible. This is the best way to protect your vehicle and keep its auto repair issues from worsening. You have to go to a vehicle repair shop if yours is acting up in the following ways, and you'll be able to preserve your investment even if it takes a little bit of money to do so.

Here are four signs your car needs an immediate trip to the auto repair shop.

It's blowing weird-colored smoke

The exhaust that comes out of your car should not be any odd color, nor should it be changing in color. The color of your vehicle exhaust should be a soft white and should be see-through, as in not thick at all. If it's white and super thick or if it's a dark gray or even a black color (or if you can smell the exhaust as well as see the smoke), then take your car into the auto repair shop for repairs.

Odds are, there is something wrong with the fuel system or something else, so you need to have a vehicle repair shop specialist check out your car.

It's making loud whining sounds when driving

If your car is having issues changing gears and is whining like crazy, take it to the auto repair shop. It might have issues with the catalytic converter, the exhaust system, or even the transmission and the sooner you have the issue addressed, the better off your car will be.

It's having issues starting or staying running

When you have a car that has problems with starting or that dies when it's been running for a while or anytime you have left your car in an idle position, then you should take your car to the auto repair shop. The starter or solenoid may be the cause of your problem and can be repaired so your car will be fixed. Your problem may even be as simple as a battery issue, but it should still be fixed.

It's using a ton of gas

Is your car using a ton of gas lately? If your car uses a ton of gas to get you from A to B and you have noticed your car using more gas than normal, take it to the auto repair shop. In the end, it's your responsibility to pay attention to the needs of your vehicle, so let your car get the servicing it needs.

For more information, contact an auto repair shop near you.