Owning a car is a huge responsibility. Not only do you have to worry about the cost of gas and repairs, but also the safety of you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.
On top of all that you also need to be mindful of engine failure.
Unlike a faulty light bulb, you can’t simply replace your engine yourself when it starts to act up. Instead, if your engine fails, the only remedy may be an expensive and time-consuming trip to the mechanic.
In some cases, the car will become a total write-off as the cost to replace the engine, is more than the vehicle’s value.
As such, it’s essential to know what causes engine failure in the first place so you can prevent it from happening. So, let’s get into some helpful tips for keeping your engine running smoothly.
The Most Common Causes of Engine Failure
The two most frequent causes of engine failure are inadequate oiling or a faulty cooling system.
- Without proper lubrication, metal parts within the engine will grind against one another, causing them to wear out prematurely. This is why your engine needs oil.
- A faulty radiator or coolant system won’t be able to keep engine temperatures under control, leading to overheating that can cause engine damage.
Other contributing factors include a lack of regular vehicle maintenance and using lower quality engine oil or gasoline than what is recommended by the manufacturer.
How To Prevent Engine Failure From Happening
Engine failure can be a surprisingly common occurrence, but it doesn’t have to be if preventive steps are taken.
The most important thing is regular maintenance which includes checking the engine oil on time, replacing air filters and spark plugs when needed, and keeping up with other routine tasks.
It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs that your car may give, such as strange sounds or odd vibrations.
Following the manufacturer’s suggested service schedule is also vital. If these intervals are ignored, you may find yourself with a useless vehicle that requires complex and costly repairs.
Finally, it’s essential to use good quality fuels and lubricants. These will help ensure optimal performance in your vehicle.
By taking preventative measures and addressing issues when they arise, you can reduce the chances of experiencing engine failure in the first place.
Common Signs Your Engine Is About To Fail
If your car’s engine is about to die, you may start to notice some common warning signs. One of the most telling signs is when your car begins to struggle with acceleration.
If it takes longer than usual for the vehicle to reach its desired speed, or if it feels sluggish when attempting to go up hills or accelerate, then this could be due to a worn-out engine.
Another sign is a quick increase in temperature and smoke coming from the hood. This could indicate that the cooling system has stopped working properly, meaning that there is too much strain on your engine which can eventually lead to its failure.
Furthermore, strange noises coming from beneath the hood such as banging, popping or whining should all be taken seriously as they can indicate a number of serious issues.
Finally, if your car develops an unusual smell – such as gasoline – it’s best to get it checked out by a specialist immediately as this can be indicative of a problem with your engine.
Overall, being aware of these common warning signs will help you to identify when your engine is about to fail. Take action accordingly before any further damage can occur.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair Or Replace An Engine?
Repairing or replacing an engine can be a complicated and expensive job which is why it should be avoided if you can.
On average, replacing an entire engine will cost between $3,000 and $4,000 depending on the make and model of the vehicle. If there are any additional parts that need to be replaced as a result of damage to the engine, then the costs can rise further – up to $7,000 in some cases.
Repairing an existing engine is often more affordable than purchasing a new one and costs typically range from $500-$2,500 depending on the damage.
However, if you decide to go for repairs rather than replacing the entire engine then you should ensure you find a reliable mechanic with experience specifically in engine repair.
Ultimately, both repairing and replacing an engine can be costly endeavors so it is best to keep your vehicle maintained to prevent such extensive damage.
Summary
Engine failure is a real concern for any vehicle owner, as it can lead to costly repairs and unexpected downtime.
Fortunately, engine failure often has an identifiable root cause, so by understanding the most common causes behind engine failure, you can be better prepared to prevent engine trouble in the future.
By being aware of these potential issues and taking proactive steps such as checking oil levels and having your coolant system flushed regularly, you can help protect your engine against potentially expensive repair bills.
In doing so, you can keep your vehicle in top working condition for many years to come.
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