How to Identify the Cause of Your Engine Problem

There are many systems in your car and some of them may be critical while others are not. It may be uncomfortable when your air-conditioning system is broken. However, a malfunctioning engine can easily render your vehicle useless when not repaired accordingly. The good news is, there are warning signs that let you know that your engine will die soon.

As a driver, it is important to know how to identify the engine problem cause in order to get it fixed as soon as possible. So, we’ve put together some of the ways that will help you determine exactly what is wrong with your car’s engine even before it completely dies on you.

Your Engine Starts to Overheat

Thanks to the heat energy produced by the combustion of fuel, your engine can properly function. While heat is produced through fuel combustion, the cooling system ensures that the engine’s temperature is regulated, preventing it from overheating. So, when the capabilities of the cooling system are reduced, it is possible for the engine to start to overheat. Needless to say, it is essential for you to learn how to properly care for your engine’s cooling system.

When you want to identify the engine problem cause, one of the things you should evaluate is why the cooling system is malfunctioning. It is possible that there is not enough coolant fluid or antifreeze in the radiator. If you see that the coolant reservoir is overflowing, this could indicate leaks. You should also pay attention to the warning lights or temperature gauge on your dashboard. These should alert you if there are overheating issues in your car.

If you let your engine frequently overheat, you might eventually deal with expensive and serious engine damage. As we’ve mentioned, it is essential for you to maintain the quality of the coolant. This will ensure that the radiator and the entire cooling system are in their optimum condition.

Your Engine Backfires

When the spark plugs’ wires have not been properly fitted, it is possible for the engine to backfire. This could also occur when the ignition timing has not been appropriately fitted or the carbon is sticking inside the distributor cap. While you are identifying the engine problem cause, you should check if there is a dark emission mixture of fuel and water when the car starts up. This can happen due to the condensation that forms at the top half of the fuel tank. As such, it is important to regularly change the fuel filter to avoid this issue.

Your Engine Fails to Start

If you hear cranking noises from your engine and yet it does not start, it is possible that there could be engine compression or there are issues with the spark plugs. If you want to fix these issues, you have to check for loose hoses. Such problem may eventually lead to a vacuum leak. There must be something wrong with the fuel system as well. Moreover, it would be helpful if you check for faulty pumps, blockage in the fuel filter, or restriction in the fuel lines.

Your Engine Makes Noises

If you hear unusual noises in your engine, they might help you identify the source of the problem. As such, it would be easier for you to diagnose the issue and take immediate measures to fix it. Make sure you check out the article we wrote about various car noises and what causes them. This would help you determine what’s wrong with your car. On the other hand, it is still always best to seek professional help when attempting to repair engine issues.

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