Common Engine Problems
Your vehicle’s engine comprises hundreds of parts working together in harmony. A complex dance expressed flawlessly. And when there is no harmony, components begin to wear and clash – eventually, the dance ends – sometimes gradually and other times abruptly. Engine problems can be frustrating, frightening, and expensive. Let’s take a moment to address some of the more common engine issues and their underlying causes.
MY CAR WON’T START
Few things are as frustrating as climbing behind the wheel of your vehicle only to discover that it won’t start. Several things may be happening when your engine refuses to start. First, is the engine cranking over but not starting? Do you hear a clicking sound, or is there no sound? If there’s no sound or only a clicking, your battery is likely dead. This could be the result of a failed alternator. You will need a boost (and perhaps a tow) to get your vehicle to the repair shop. If the engine turns over but refuses to start, you could be looking at a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a problem with the ignition/electrical system.
MY CAR IS OVERHEATING
There’s steam coming out from under the hood. The temperature gauge is pinned in the “I’m way too hot” position. Your vehicle chugs a couple of times and comes to a halt on the side of the road. Vehicles overheat for several reasons. A broken hose, belt, failed water pump, stuck thermostat, or gasket – even a clogged radiator. Whatever the reason, you should never ignore the problem. Doing so could result in severe damage to your engine and even a seized engine. If your vehicle is running hot, take it immediately to Gearhead Automotive Services. If there’s steam rolling out from under the hood, pull over to the side of the road, turn off your engine, put on your 4-ways, call a tow truck and say, “Take me to Gearhead Automotive Services!”
MY CAR STALLED
You’re cruising along on your way to work, running a little behind but making good time. You’ve got the tunes cranked and singing along when, suddenly, everything stops. You roll over to the side of the road and try to start your vehicle. No luck. A stalled vehicle is frustrating and dangerous should it quit in the middle of a busy street. As with a vehicle that refuses to start, common problems could be a blocked fuel line or filter or a problem with the electrical system. (On the odd chance that you forgot to fill up the tank, you could have run out of gas.) If issues with stalling persist, take your vehicle to the experts at Gearhead Automotive Services.
Should you experience any of these typical engine issues, have the issue diagnosed and repaired immediately by the experienced team of Red Seal techs at Gearhead Automotive.
Call Gearhead Automotive Services – your local Red Deer Mechanic – for all your vehicle’s maintenance and repair requirements, and schedule an appointment today!