How to Tell if Your Car’s Engine Is Failing and What to Do About It
The holiday season is upon us here in Arlington. And while you’re enjoying the turkey and the lights, the last thing you want on your mind is a failing car or truck engine. Because, your vehicle’s engine is its heart, and when it starts failing, your car or truck could be in serious trouble. So, catching the signs early can save you from costly repairs or even the need for a full engine replacement. Therefore, in this blog the experts at Meineke in Arlington dive into how to recognize the warning signs of engine trouble and what you should do if you suspect a problem.
Signs Your Engine May Be Failing
Strange Noises
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- Knocking, tapping, or grinding sounds from the engine often indicate internal component damage. And these sounds might result from worn-out bearings, a failing timing belt, or issues with the crankshaft.
Excessive Exhaust Smoke
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- Blue smoke indicates burning oil, which could mean worn piston rings or valve seals.
- White smoke might be a sign of a blown head gasket.
- Black smoke suggests the engine is burning too much fuel, likely due to a faulty injector or clogged air filter.
Loss of Power or Poor Performance
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- Does your car struggles to accelerate, stalls frequently, or loses power while driving Then, it could signal issues with the fuel system, compression, or ignition components.
Overheating
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- Persistent overheating can warp engine components, leading to a cascade of failures. And if your temperature gauge frequently spikes, you may have a coolant leak, faulty thermostat, or damaged radiator.
Check Engine Light
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- While the check engine light can indicate minor issues, ignoring it could allow small problems to escalate into major engine damage. So, get a diagnostic check at Meineke on Poly Webb Road in Arlington as soon as possible.
Unusual Odors
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- Burning oil, gas, or coolant smells can signal leaks or overheating. And these issues often lead to bigger engine problems if left unaddressed.
What to Do If You Suspect Engine Trouble
Stop Driving Immediately
- Continuing to drive a failing engine can worsen the damage. So, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and call for assistance if necessary.
Check Fluid Levels
- Inspect oil, coolant, and transmission fluid levels. Because, low or leaking fluids could be the root cause of the problem. And top off if necessary. But avoid driving if the issue persists.
Consult a Professional Mechanic
- Visit the ASE-certified mechanic at Meineke in Arlington to get a proper diagnosis. Because they can use tools like an OBD scanner to identify underlying problems.
Consider Preventative Maintenance
- The key is to avoid engine failure in the future. So, follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and timing belt inspections.
Recognizing the signs of a failing engine early can save you time, money, and stress.
If you notice anything unusual—be it noises, smoke, or reduced performance—don’t wait. Because, acting quickly can mean the difference between a simple repair and a costly replacement. And by staying alert and addressing issues promptly at Meineke in Arlington, you’ll keep your car running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
If the Meineke in Arlington is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 11 car repair centers is Texas:
Meineke Car Care Center – Hwy 123
1252 Highway 123
San Marcos, TX 78666
Call (512) 396-8285
Meineke Car Care – Altamesa Dr.
3012 Altamesa Blvd
Fort Worth, TX 76133
Call (682) 703-2378
Meineke Car Care – Bryant Irvin Rd.
5031 Bryant Irvin Road
Fort Worth, TX 76132
Call (817) 744-7900
Meineke Car Care – W Northwest Hwy.
11613 East Northwest Highway
Dallas, TX 75218
Call (214) 221-1177
Meineke Car Car – Broadway Blvd.
5615 Broadway Blvd.
Garland, TX 75043
Call (469) 366-9360
Meineke Car Care – Burnet Road
7829 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78757
Call (512) 814-0877
Meineke Car Care – Valley View Lane
2513 Valley View Lane
Farmers Branch, TX 75234
Call (972) 247-2600
Meineke Car Care – North Bell Blvd.
2105 North Bell Blvd
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Call (512) 686-5491
Meineke Car Care – Kirkwood Rd.
2343 S. Kirkwood Road
Houston, TX 77077
Call (832) 288-5380
Meineke Car Care – Poly Webb Rd.
5980 Poly Webb Road
Arlington, TX 76016
Call (817) 765-2194
Meineke Car Care – W. Main St.
1550 West Main Street
Lewisville, TX 75067
Call (469) 312-3356
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