Your engine is the heart of your vehicle. A complex piece of machinery, the engine provides the power needed to move your car. But like any other part of your car, your engine can experience issues over time, which is why it’s important to pay attention to how your vehicle performs and recognize the signs that your engine needs repair.
Is it Time to Schedule Engine Repair?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you may need engine repair:
Warning lights
If the check engine light comes on, it means a problem has been detected with your engine or emissions system. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. If the light is blinking, it means that the issue could cause severe engine damage. It’s best to avoid driving until you can bring your car into the shop.
Oil leaks
If you’ve noticed spots of oil under your car, you likely have an oil leak. These are often caused by a faulty gasket or seal.
Misfires
Engine misfires can cause your vehicle to shake or have reduced power. They’re often caused by a faulty spark plug or ignition coil.
Overheating
There are a variety of reasons an engine can overheat, including cooling system leaks, blocked hoses, low oil levels, a broken water pump, and more.
Strange sounds
Strange noises coming from the engine, like knocking, ticking, or hissing could be caused by a variety of issues, such as low oil pressure or a failing water pump.
Poor performance
If you notice performance issues like a lack of power, difficulty starting, or sluggish acceleration, you may need repairs. These symptoms could be due to a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or worn-out spark plugs.
Smoke
Smoke coming from the exhaust pipe can be an indication of an engine problem. Depending on the color, it could be from the engine burning oil, a coolant leak, or other issues.
Unusual Smells
If you smell a burning odor, you may have an oil leak or the belts or hoses could be overheating.
Vibrations
Excessive vibrations or shaking coming from your car’s engine or steering wheel could be due to an issue with your engine mounts, worn spark plugs, a loose or disconnected hose, or a poorly adjusted fuel intake system, just to name a few.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible because ignoring these problems can lead to additional damage to your engine and more expensive repairs.
Rebuilding Your Engine After Catastrophic Failure
The majority of catastrophic engine failures are caused by overheating or a lack of lubrication due to a broken oil pump or low oil level. In these cases, the most cost-effective option is generally to rebuild the engine, rather than replace it. Rebuilding an engine involves removing it from the vehicle and then disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, and replacing all damaged parts with new or refurbished parts that meet OEM (original equipment manufacturer) standards.
As the leading experts in engine repair in Sonoma County, RPM Engines & Machine offers complete rebuilding, remanufacturing, and welding services to revive your vehicle’s performance. Our team takes pride in our work and double-checks every component during the assembly process to ensure longevity and a perfect fit. We also back all factory rebuilds with a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty. With RPM Engines & Machine, you can expect your vehicle to drive better than it did the day it rolled off the factory floor.
To schedule an appointment, contact us today at (707) 387-9200 or request an appointment online.
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