What Causes An Engine to Fail?
There are many reasons why an engine might fail, but running out of oil, having dirty oil, and a failing oil pump are at the top of the list. Other problems that may cause an engine to become damaged or die are inadequate fuel and air compression, leaking engine coolant, a blocked radiator, too much heat (overheating), damaged oxygen sensors, and old spark plugs.
Signs an Engine Needs Attention
Some signs that you may need to have your engine checked include:
- Knocking – you might need to add oil or an engine part might be starting to fail
- Whistling – there could be an intake leak or a camshaft belt might be misaligned
- Squealing – the fan belt might be loose
- Engine Stalling – there are many possibilities, such as a problem with the fuel pump, electrical system, fuel injector, spark plug, overheating, or not enough fuel
Preventive Measures To Maximize the Life of An Engine
One of the best ways to care for your engine is to do preventive maintenance checks. Having your oil changed on a regular basis (every 3,000 – 5,000 miles, even if your car is slated for oil changes every 10,000, to keep it free of debris) is key. Contaminants that build up in your oil and circulate through the engine can force your engine to work harder than it should. Another wise investment in your vehicle is to do a tune-up when recommended. The fuel and air filters are replaced, the idle and timings settings are reviewed, and the spark plugs are checked, which helps your engine run more efficiently.
Your Local Engine Repair Experts
If you need to have your engine evaluated or repaired, our expert technicians at M1 Auto Repair can help you! We offer a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty and have become one of the highest-ranked repair shops in the valley due to our level of competency and honesty. Making an appointment is easy – call 801-878-9455, use our online schedule system or walk-in. We are located at 7586 S Redwood Road West Jordan, UT 84084, and are a family-owned, local auto shop. We strive to provide the best service and quality repairs possible!