Engine performance and reliability are problems unless you drive a new automobile every day. Although certain engine problems are more serious than others, the vast majority of them may be avoided by keeping up with routine maintenance. Let’s go over three typical engine problems and their causes.
PROBLEM #1: THE ENGINE WILL NOT START
It’s one of the most nerve-wracking and prevalent engine issues; practically every driver has felt the sinking sensation of turning the key and the engine failing to start normally. If the engine is clicking but not cranking, you may usually assume it’s a battery issue. However, you’re looking at a fuel or ignition problem if the engine cranks but doesn’t start.
Your motor oil bears a significant amount of responsibility. The oil lubricates the engine, cools its components, keeps it clean, and prevents deposits from forming. Even the greatest oil, unfortunately, diminishes with time. When oil gets old, it starts to fill up with sludge and particles. Your engine will suffer as a result of this.
Contaminants are removed together with the old oil and filter when you replace the oil. Your manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule will be available, but a reasonable rule of thumb is to change the oil and filter every three months or every 3,000 miles.
A catalytic converter is an important component of your vehicle’s exhaust system. The catalytic converter is a device that breaks down harmful chemical pollutants from an engine and directs them away from the driver. The catalytic converter will wear down over time, but driving behaviors, road conditions, and vehicle type might also have an impact. If you hear rattling while accelerating or braking, or any other loud noises while driving, it’s time to have your exhaust system checked. The catalytic converter might fail as a consequence of internal blockage caused by excessive carbon accumulation, or as a result of a leak produced by rust or corrosion. Regular maintenance checks will ensure that the complete exhaust system is in good working order.
ENGINE PROBLEM #2: SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT
The following are common causes for your “Service Engine Soon” light to illuminate: Your car features a “Service Engine Soon” light that illuminates when one of the sensors connected to the emission, engine, or powertrain controls detects a defect. Some major causes might be :
- Loose Or Missing Gas Cap
- Worn Out And Damaged Spark Plugs Or Wires
- Electronic Control Module Failure
- Defective Distributor Or Coil Packs
- Emissions Control Fault – Such As The Oxygen Sensor
- Poor Fuel Quality
ENGINE PROBLEM #3: ENGINE OVERHEATING
While overheating engines are more common in the summer, this does not rule out the possibility of it happening in the winter. Most automobiles have temperature gauges or warning lights that alert the driver if the engine is about to overheat. The easiest way to avoid engine overheating is to keep the coolant in good condition and have it serviced on a regular basis.
The following issues are the most common causes of overheating:
- Damaged Or Broken Thermostat
- Dirty Or Low Coolant Level
- Non-Functioning Cooling Fan
- Failed Radiator Hose
- Internal Or External Coolant Leaks
- Defective Radiator Cap
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