Although maintaining your car’s engine is crucial, it can be simple to overlook, ignore, or reject any warning signs as just a blip or something that can wait until a later time. But it’s worth recognizing and taking into account the symptoms that could mean anything is wrong with your engine before it’s too late and you risk significant engine damage.
We’re going to look at some of the symptoms and signs that can alert you to problems beneath the hood in order to assist you recognize the signs of engine damage. Knowing what to watch out for will help you maintain your automobile and save money on repair costs, from strange noises and smoke to other obvious symptoms.
Unusual Noises
· Knocking
The rod bearings may have worn out or become too loose if there is a knocking or thumping sounds. Driving while the vehicle is in this condition is not advised until it has been thoroughly inspected and fixed because the bearings will likely fail soon.
· Squealing
The fan belt is suffering serious damage if your engine is hitting those high notes and making ear-splitting squeaks and squeals. A grating high pitched sound is produced when the belt becomes loose and worn out in power steering and stops moving at the same rate as the pulleys that are controlling it. You can tighten it up yourself if it’s not too loose; or you will have to replace it. You can get those from online. For example if you have a Mazda you can simply search for mazda 6 power steering pump, then you can find the necessary one for your vehicle.
· Grinding
Not only is a grinding sounding unpleasant to hear, but it also suggests that your front brake pads are wearing down every time you drive. The metal backing plate clamps directly onto the brake disc when the last portion of the pad is gone, drastically decreasing the efficacy of the car’s breaking system. When things become this terrible, we strongly advise against getting in your car.
Heavy Smoking
· Smoke in Blue
If it is blue, oil is escaping from the engine and is burning in the combustion chamber together with the fuel. Adding engine oil to the crankcase repeatedly is a temporary cure, but you should definitely take the car in to have any worn or damaged seals repaired.
· Smoke White
White smoke is a symptom that the fuel supply has either been contaminated with antifreeze or water condensation. Adding more coolant or antifreeze prevents it from overheating and offers a temporary fix, but getting a professional inspection would be the smarter course of action.
· Dark Smoke
If you notice black smoke and it doesn’t go away when the engine heats up, the air filter may have been blocked. A straightforward replacement will solve the issue, but if it continues, the air-to-fuel ratio is likely out of balance. If you want your car to stop smoking so much while you’re driving, you’ll need to replace a defective fuel pressure regulator or a leaking fuel injector.
