Meineke Car Care Centers

Crankshaft: What It Is and Why It Matters at Meineke in San Angelo

When your engine runs smoothly, you can thank the crankshaft. Because it plays a critical role in converting engine energy into motion, this part keeps your vehicle moving efficiently. Whether you’re commuting through San Angelo or taking a scenic Texas drive, a healthy crankshaft is essential to engine performance.

At Meineke in San Angelo, we inspect, repair, and maintain crankshafts to prevent major engine failure. So, in this post, we’ll explain what the crankshaft is, what it does, how it works, how to maintain it, and when to see a mechanic.

What the Crankshaft Is

To begin, the crankshaft is a heavy-duty rotating shaft located in the lower part of your engine block. Since it connects to the pistons, it plays a vital part in your vehicle’s power system. Although it’s rarely seen, it’s one of the hardest-working components inside your engine.

Because of its demanding job, the crankshaft must be strong, precise, and well-balanced.

What the Crankshaft Does

The crankshaft’s job is to convert the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational force. While pistons move in straight lines, your wheels require rotation. So, the crankshaft acts as the bridge between combustion power and movement.

Since every rotation powers your vehicle forward, even minor crankshaft issues can cause serious handling problems.

How the Crankshaft Works

First, fuel combusts in the engine’s cylinders, pushing the pistons downward. Then, these pistons push against connecting rods attached to the crankshaft. As a result, the crankshaft spins, transferring power through the transmission and eventually to the wheels.

Because it spins thousands of times per minute, it must be precisely aligned and properly lubricated to function correctly.

How to Maintain the Crankshaft

Even though the crankshaft is built for durability, routine care keeps it performing at its best. So, follow these steps to protect it:

• Change your engine oil regularly at Meineke in San Angelo, because clean oil prevents wear on the crankshaft and its bearings

• Address unusual engine noises immediately, since knocking may signal crankshaft trouble

• Avoid low oil pressure, which can damage crankshaft journals and seals

• Replace worn engine mounts, as they help keep the crankshaft aligned

• Schedule regular engine inspections, to catch small issues before they become expensive repairs

Because the crankshaft works under constant stress, timely maintenance helps avoid major engine damage.

When to See a Mechanic at Meineke in San Angelo

Sometimes, crankshaft issues develop without warning. So, visit Meineke in San Angelo if:

• You hear a deep knocking noise from the engine, which may indicate worn crankshaft bearings

• Your engine vibrates excessively, especially at idle or acceleration

• You notice metal shavings in your oil, suggesting internal wear

• The check engine light appears, particularly with codes related to crankshaft position sensors

• Your engine fails to start or misfires frequently, which can be caused by crankshaft damage

Since crankshaft failure can lead to complete engine breakdown, fast professional attention is crucial.

So, Call Meineke in San Angelo Today for Expert Crankshaft Service

Because the crankshaft drives the entire motion of your engine, protecting it is vital. At Meineke in San Angelo, our ASE-certified technicians are trained to detect crankshaft problems early and offer reliable repair solutions. Whether you need diagnostics, repairs, or full engine service, we’re here to help.

So, call Meineke today and keep your engine running strong—because a smooth ride starts with a solid crankshaft.

If the Meineke in Farmers Branch is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke also has 11 car repair centers is Texas: