At its core, your vehicle is an engine, a precisely engineered device designed to endure the rigors of thousands of miles on the road. But neglecting engine maintenance can cause even the most powerful engines to break down. Many engine failures that come into Heath’s Auto Repair in Prescott may have been avoided with better diagnostics and routine maintenance. Protecting your vehicle, avoiding expensive repairs, and keeping it running smoothly for years to come can be achieved by understanding the most common causes.
1. Inadequate Lubrication and Absence of Oil
Lack of lubrication is the leading reason for engine failure. If you want to keep your engine from overheating and grinding its moving parts together, you need oil. Internal damage, distorted components, or even an engine seizure might result from increased friction caused by low oil levels or unclean oil. The easiest approach to avoid this catastrophic failure is to check the oil frequently and change it as directed by the manufacturer.
2. Excessive Heat
Warping or cracking of metal components can occur in an engine that is overheated. Problems with the water pump, the radiator, or insufficient coolant can lead to overheating. Stop right away if the temperature gauge goes into the red area or steam appears from beneath the hood. A small problem might quickly become a big one if you keep driving with an overheated engine.
3. Disregarding the Engine Warning Light
You can’t just leave that small orange dashboard light on. It serves as a warning mechanism in case something goes amiss, whether it’s minor today or major in the future. Problems with sensors, spark plugs, or the exhaust system are common. Ignoring these warning signals could cause your engine to run poorly or possibly break down entirely. In order to catch issues before they get worse, have a diagnostic done at Heath’s Auto Repair.
4. Issues with Fuel and Clogged Filters
For optimal engine performance, pure air and fuel are essential. Your engine could overheat if the flow is restricted due to a dirty fuel injector or a blocked air filter. A similar accumulation of carbon and rust within the engine might result from using low-quality fuel or failing to perform fuel system maintenance. Your engine will breathe easier and burn fuel more efficiently if you clean the fuel system and replace the filters on a regular basis.
5. Problems with the Timing Belt or Chain
The camshaft and crankshaft of your engine are kept in sync by means of the timing belt or chain. Severe internal damage can result from a collision between the valves and pistons if it were to break. Timing belts typically need replacement between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, according to most manufacturers. Immediate engine inspection is required in the event that you detect rattling, ticking, or slapping sounds.
6. Skipping Over Regular Upkeep
Finally, basic indifference is the root cause of many engine breakdowns. The lifespan of your engine can be diminished if you neglect routine maintenance like oil changes, minor leaks, or tune-ups. Your vehicle’s lifespan, fuel efficiency, and performance can all be enhanced with regular maintenance.
Our ASE-certified mechanics at Heath’s Auto Repair in Prescott are experts at identifying and avoiding potential engine failures. Get your car’s engine checked out regularly so it stays powerful all year round.
Heath’s Auto Service in Prescott, AZ
The team at Heath’s Auto Service in Prescott, AZ would be happy to help with all of your automotive service needs!
At Heath’s Auto Service, we take pride in being your one-stop destination for full-service auto and truck repair in Prescott, AZ. Our team of skilled technicians possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge, allowing us to confidently handle domestic, Asian, and European vehicles with precision and expertise. Contact our team today!