Common Car Engine Problems

Thank goodness that there are auto mechanics out there to help keep our vehicles running. If left up to us, most would be walking instead of driving. However there are times when a mechanic isn’t the best choice and you have to do it yourself. 

• Your engine is making a pinging sound when you are under a load or upon acceleration. Many times this is simply a result of using a low octane fuel or excessive carbon deposits in your cylinders. Try putting high octane with your next fill-up and see it that corrects the problem. If that doesn’t fix it see your mechanic.


• You hear a high-pitched squeal coming from your engine compartment when starting the car or while it is running. Generally this is due to one or more of your belts in the engine compartment. It could also be from your alternator or AC compressor pulleys if they have become damaged or worn. You can stop this by spraying on a silicone lubricant to the underside of the belts until you can have them changed.


• If you notice grinding or clicking sounds when trying to start the car it could be electrical in nature. There may be a bad battery or battery cables or a bad connection or possibly a bad starter motor. Check the battery and look over the cables. If they are bad replace them. If the noise is extreme check the teeth on the starter solenoid and replace if necessary.


• When your engine oil light flickers occasionally while you are driving it could mean that you are either low on oil or using the wrong oil. Check your oil. If the level is okay you most likely have the wrong oil in the car. When it becomes hot it won’t maintain the correct pressure. If that is the case change to the correct oil.

There are many other indicators that you can easily find on the Internet. The main point is that when something is looking or sounding wrong get it checked as soon as is possible to avoid costly repairs.