Common Engine Problems

Your Engine Isn't Starting

When your car won’t start, oftentimes a depleted battery is to blame. However, it could also be due to poor lubrication, a faulty fuel pump, old spark plugs, and any number of other engine-related issues. If you know your engine is well lubricated and the oil filter is fresh, the problem may be an internal engine issue. If you’re seeing a lot of smoke coming from the exhaust, bring your car in for an engine diagnostic service.

There's An Engine Knocking Noise

If you're hearing noises like engine knocking or tapping, it can indicate that the vehicle is running low on oil. It may also mean that an engine part, such as a valve or lifter, is wearing out. A whistling noise can indicate an engine belt is misaligned or there is an intake leak. It may also be that there is too much carbon buildup on the piston heads or valves. Any metal on metal grinding noises may be coming from your brakes rather than your engine. You can listen for the engine knocking sounds in the following scenarios:

• Engine knocks when you first start the car
  
• Engine knocks when the car is cold
  
• Engine knocks when the car is warm
  
• Engine knocks while the car is idling
  
• Engine knocks while accelerating
• Engine knocks at a high RPM

Your Engine Stalls

Engine stalls can indicate an issue with a fuel pump, oxygen sensor, or possibly an electrical system problem. It can also indicate you're running low on gas, your car is overheating, or that an engine component is failing, such as fuel injectors or spark plugs. Some common types of engine stalls include:

• Engine stalls when the engine is cold
• Engine stalls when the engine is hot
• Engine stalls while accelerating
• Engine stalls when you put the car in drive
• Engine stalls when braking
• Engine stalls when the A/C is on

Your Check Engine Light Appears

Most drivers know that the dreaded check engine light can show up for all kinds of reasons. It may be something as simple as a loose gas cap or something more serious like failed ignition coils or a faulty oxygen sensor. Either way, it’s hard to know what exactly triggered the check engine light until you receive a diagnostics check. Don’t wait until problems get worse —bring your car in right away to have your check engine light diagnosed.