Your engine is the heart of your car. If it’s not functioning properly, it can impact other elements and lead to big repair bills. Plus, it can use more gas and burn oil. If you hear any of these sounds from your engine, call your local mechanic or take it in for a check.
Knock Knock
We’ve all heard the knock knock joke that a car goes better with gas but that’s even more true that your car goes better with a healthy engine. Knocking or pinging noises are a sure sign there’s something wrong. It could be something simple, like needing a new fuel filter, or it may signal it’s time for new spark plugs. Let your local mechanic diagnose the reason for the knocking in your engine.
Unusual Acceleration Sounds
If your car sounds normal while sitting at a red light but sound unusual in any way when you accelerate, you probably have a bent piston, bad alternator, an issue with your compressor or water pump or just may be low on power steering fluid. This is one of the more difficult issues to self-diagnose.
Popping or Backfiring
A backfire or popping sound signals an issue if it happens more than once. These issues are often similar to those that cause knocking but is an earlier sign. If you head into your local mechanic as soon as you notice the issue, you may just need a tune-up rather than need to replace multiple parts.
Grinding or Clicking
There are many reasons for a grinding or clicking noise. Being able to tell your local mechanic when you hear it will help them narrow down whether it’s an issue in your braking system or engine. Again, when this sort of issue is caught early, you’ll end up spending less on the repair.
Hissing Sounds
Chances are good that if you hear a hissing or sizzling sound, you’re also seeing steam or your engine temperature is high. This is often a sing that you have an issue with your radiator or that one of your fluids is leaking onto your engine. It’s possible you’ll just need a new hose but it’s also possible your radiator needs to be replaced which can be quite costly.
Ignoring strange or unusual sounds or an illuminated check engine light will lead to a more expensive repair. Pay attention to how your car acts and sounds and take it in to your local mechanic when you notice anything unusual. Getting regular tune ups and performing regularly scheduled maintenance can reduce unexpected repair bills. If you don’t have a local mechanic you trust, come by Oldsmar Automotive and see how we’re different. We’re located at 3166 Tampa Rd in Oldsmar so come by or schedule an appointment by calling (727) 784-3501.
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