Auto Troubleshooting: Understanding The Common Problem Signs

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3 Clues That Your Vehicle Is Having Engine Trouble

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Engine trouble is something that you will want to notice as soon as possible because the longer you drive around with a failing engine, the more likely you will end up stranded somewhere. Also, you don't want to find out that the engine problem got a lot worse because you delayed getting the engine repairs done. Check out the following clues that let you know that it is time to get the vehicle in the engine repair shop.

There's Smoke Coming Out Of The Exhaust

A little white smoke coming out of the exhaust, or tail pipe, when you first start up the vehicle on a cold day is usually nothing to be concerned about. However, if there is black or blue smoke, you will want to get your vehicle to the mechanic's shop right away to find out if there is a problem with the engine. It could be that there is coolant leaking into the cylinders, that engine oil is burning, or that the engine is burning too much fuel.

The Engine Overheats

If you are getting used to only being able to drive for a few miles before you have to pull over and park for a while because the engine is overheating, it is time for a repair appointment. You should consider parking the vehicle until you can get it towed to the engine repair shop in order to prevent yourself ending up with a blown engine. Hopefully you can just have the engine repaired since that is usually more affordable than completely replacing the engine.

There's Oil Spots On The Driveway

Call for an inspection if you are starting to notice that your vehicle is leaving spots of engine oil in the driveway or anywhere else it is parked for a while. The smaller the engine oil leak, the more time the vehicle might have to sit parked before the oil spot is noticed. However, you still might want to refrain from driving the vehicle until the engine issue is repaired because you never know when a small leak could become a big one. You do not want to accidentally operate the vehicle that doesn't have enough oil in it.

Call around to see which engine repair shop can take a look at your vehicle in the near future. Since there is a lot to look at, you might be asked to simply drop off the vehicle and they will call you once they are done checking it out. For more information about engine repairs, reach out to a local auto service.


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