This site uses cookies to improve your experience. To help us insure we adhere to various privacy regulations, please select your country/region of residence. If you do not select a country, we will assume you are from the United States. Select your Cookie Settings or view our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Used for the proper function of the website
Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Strictly Necessary: Used for the proper function of the website
Performance/Analytics: Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Every experienced mechanic knows that troubleshooting car repairs is as much about instinct as it is about technical skills. But when he started the car, the CheckEnginelight began flashinga sign that something was seriously wrong. I had never seen a flashing CheckEnginelight before, Hugo admitted.
Engine misfires are among the most common and potentially damaging problems drivers face. Whether you’re just starting your auto mechanic training or already working in a shop, knowing how to identify and fix engine misfires quickly is a critical skill. What Is an Engine Misfire? Engine warning lights illuminated.
Whether it’s “Why is my checkenginelight on?” That shift means your auto repair shop’s online content needs to do more than rank high on search engines. That’s where GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) comes in. That’s where GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) comes in.
Service bulletins, more formally known as Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), are documents issued by vehicle manufacturers to alert technicians to common issues found in specific makes and models. Unlike recall notices, TSBs typically address non-safety-related defects, from software glitches to persistent checkenginelight triggers.
As a car owner, one of the most dreaded moments is when the checkenginelight suddenly turns on. However, instead of panicking, take a deep breath and understand what your car is trying to communicate through that little orange light. Pay attention to other symptoms your car may exhibit and the checkenginelight.
Faced with the dreaded CheckEngineLight (CEL)? While it’s easy to jump to the worst conclusions, sometimes your vehicle may simply trigger the CheckEngineLight for gas cap issues. Let’s understand the connection between a bad gas cap and the CheckEngineLight and how you can fix it.
Want to know the best thing you can do to keep your timing system and engine operating efficiently? For example, two oiling issues the Cloyes engineering team has experienced with engines currently on the road are the General Motors (GM) High Feature V6 (HFV6) and the Ford 5.4-liter liter modular V8.
With a limited number of vehicle brands to learn, it didn’t take long to become proficient in all areas of automotive repair, from engine mechanical, drivetrain, electrical, steering, suspension, and all other systems. The Big Three, as they were once known, dominated the roadways in those days. That was back then.
Yes , replacing a damaged exhaust manifold is essential to protect your engine. This results in increased toxic emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine misfires. Unusual engine noises: You may hear a loud rumbling, hissing, or clicking sound near the engine when there’s an exhaust manifold leak.
Software Updates: Ford has released technical service bulletins (TSBs) regarding these transmission issues, which can be controlled by software. Engine Performance Issues You may experience hesitation or lack of power when accelerating, which is often traced to small boost leaks or a malfunctioning sensor.
The fuel rail pressure sensor in your car monitors fuel pressure, enabling the engine control module (ECM) to adjust ignition timing for optimal performance. Accessibility: In some vehicles, the sensor is fixed at the top of the engine, making it easily accessible. Replacing more than one sensor will double your expenses.
Is your car’s engine constantly misfiring ? These are classic signs of a bad head gasket — a seal between the cylinder head and engine block that keeps the combustion chamber secure. However, when this gasket fails , it must be replaced ASAP to prevent an engine meltdown. And is it overheating, too? depending on the type.
Since these essential components ignite the fuel in your engine , a timely replacement can prevent potential performance issues, reduced fuel efficiency, and unexpected breakdowns. Worn piston rings can leak oil into the engines combustion chamber, leading to oil-fouled spark plugs that struggle to ignite the fuel mixture.
A faulty sensor can also cause problems with components like the fuel injectors and exhaust manifold as well as result in severe engine damage. While you can technically drive with a bad FTP sensor, it’s not recommended. A malfunctioning sensor can disrupt the emissions control system and create engine performance issues.
Timely engine air filter replacement ensures your engine breathes easy and performs efficiently. So how do you replace an engine air filter? Keep reading to get an idea of what the engine air filter replacement process looks like and how much it costs. How Often Should You Change the Engine Air Filter?
It all comes down to the delicate balance of fuel and air in your engine. Buckle up as we understand the difference between a lean vs rich engine, how to diagnose the symptoms, and unmask the dangers. How to Tell if Your Car Is Running Lean or Rich What Causes an Engine to Run Lean or Rich? 1) for a gasoline engine.
If the “Engine Power Reduced” warning comes on your dashboard, consider it your engine’s cry for help, signaling that something isn’t right. Read on to understand the meaning of the “Engine Power Reduced” message and the common faults that can set it off. Let’s find out.
Bad O2 sensor symptoms , when left unchecked, can result in poor engine performance and cause harmful emissions. Blinking or Illuminated CheckEngineLight A continuously illuminated or flashing CheckEngineLight (CEL) is an early indicator of a failed oxygen sensor. Let’s get rolling.
What Does “Check Air Suspension ” Mean ? The “check air suspension” warning light activates when the suspension control module (SCM) and engine control module (ECM) detect a problem with the air suspension system. Sometimes, when a related air suspension part fails, the ECM may also activate the checkenginelight.
While an EVAP leak will not pose an immediate safety risk, it can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency and affect engine performance if left unchecked. Can an EVAP Leak Cause Engine Misfires? While driving with an EVAP leak is technically possible, it isn’t recommended. Wondering if you can drive with an EVAP leak?
Noticed a fuel smell from your engine? Well, if it’s accompanied by a rough idle and other engine performance problems, then you might need a purge valve replacement. This system traps and reroutes fuel vapor to the engine, reducing harmful emissions and improving fuel efficiency. What Is the Purge Valve and What Does it Do?
Additionally, some vehicles have the crankshaft position sensor in hard-to-reach areas, such as behind the engine or near the transmission, which can increase labor costs. The sensor monitors the crankshaft’s position as well as speed and sends this data to the Engine Control Module (ECM). How Long Does a Crankshaft Sensor Last?
But when combined with frequent backfiring and engine stalling at idle, youve got a recipe for an intolerable driving experience. Its likely a faulty idle air control valve, which regulates airflow to the engine for maintaining idle speed. A malfunctioning valve will result in stalling, misfiring, and other engine issues.
Additionally, its location in the engine can differ depending on the brand and model, impacting labor costs. Number of VVT solenoids that need replacing: Some cars have multiple solenoids depending on the number of camshafts in the engine. The best way to keep your VVT solenoid in good shape is to use high-quality engine oil.
You’ll technically be able to start and drive your car with a faulty O2 sensor, but you’ll likely face poor engine performance and a drop in fuel economy. When this happens, you may experience an engine misfire and engine damage (if the issue is unaddressed). Check for these bad O2 sensor symptoms.
The BMW N63 was one of the most advanced V8 engines when it hit the market in 2008. BMW’s new motor for performance sedans and SUVs had various things that made it unique, from its all-aluminum construction, direct injection, and “hot-V” layout which was the first of its kind in a production engine.
But when it’s worn out, it can lead to annoying engine performance issues , such as rough idling or delayed response. Issues such as engine stalling during stops or sudden acceleration can lead to hazardous driving situations, especially in traffic or at intersections. What’s worse?
If this sensor goes bad , it can affect your engine and drivability. You also need to calibrate or reset the new sensor to ensure optimum engine performance. Let’s find out how to reset a camshaft position sensor to keep your engine in top shape and get answers to related concerns. So you need to replace it soon.
When that happens, problems crop up like engine misfires, and you’ll have to replace them. Disconnect Negative Battery Cable First, check your owner’s manual to see if your car needs a memory saver when disconnecting the battery. Make sure the engine is cool before you do anything. That high voltage fires up your spark plugs.
Signs You Need a Battery Terminal Replacement Here are some clear indications to invest in new battery terminals: Flashing checkenginelight : A blinking checkenginelight signals a malfunction in your vehicle’s operating system. Here’s what they’d do: Turn off the engine.
Poor engine performance: If the Engine Control Module (ECM) doesn’t have enough speed data, it can’t adjust functions like the air-fuel ratio and ignition timing , which affect the engine’s performance. To determine whether your vehicle speed sensor is bad, you’ll need a multimeter and OBD-II scanner to check the readings.
AWD Warning Light Illuminates There are many potential contributors to an illuminated check AWD system light, including: Low tire pressure A faulty wheel speed sensor An electrical issue Driving with odd-sized tires Often, the AWD light illuminates when there’s an FWD fuse inserted in the front-wheel drive slot in the fuse box, disabling your AWD.
This can lead to fluctuating engine RPMs and rough idling. Rattling noise from the engine: A rattling or ticking noise under the hood could point to a bad VVT solenoid. When the actuator doesn’t get the necessary pressure, it can’t maintain the engine’s timing accurately.
Troubled by unusual sounds , reduced engine performance , or sluggish response to the gas pedal input? Unusual Noises You may hear a ticking or tapping sound that can seem like a strange engine noise. These sounds will be more prominent when the engine is cold than when it warms up. It could be an exhaust manifold leak.
Below is technical expertise on “Why is my automatic car not shifting gears?” If the checkenginelight is on while you are having shifting problems, the TCM may be the issue. When an automatic transmission equipped car won’t shift gears, there could be several potential issues.
If your car shakes when idle, it could be due to issues with the fuel system , engine belts, motor mount, or the air intake system. Ignore it for long and it can lead to engine performance and accelerated engine wear. Damaged Engine Mounts The engine mount (motor mount) is a frame that holds the engine in place.
It could lead to poor fuel efficiency , stalling , engine damage, or even fires. Since your engine will face fuel starvation, accelerating or driving unnecessarily will overheat and damage the engine. Since your engine will face fuel starvation, accelerating or driving unnecessarily will overheat and damage the engine.
Troubled by unusual sounds , reduced engine performance , or sluggish response to the gas pedal input? Unusual Noises You may hear a ticking or tapping sound that can seem like a strange engine noise. These sounds will be more prominent when the engine is cold than when it warms up. It could be an exhaust manifold leak.
These small but vital components keep your engine running smoothly, and when they’re blocked, performance suffers. Fuel injectors deliver the right amount of fuel into the combustion chamber to keep your engine humming. Regular cleaning and maintenance keep these engine parts running efficiently and prevent costly problems.
Spark plug wires are the lifeline that delivers the electric spark from your car’s ignition to the spark plugs, helping your engine start and run smoothly. For instance, in V6 and V8 engines, spark plugs are located at the back of the engine or underneath the intake manifolds. But not if you fix them fast!
The light could be triggered by: Low fluid level: Driving with low transfer case, transmission , and other fluids can overheat AWD components and wear them down faster due to a lack of lubrication. This can trigger the AWD warning and CheckEngineLight. Refill them if running low, or replace them if they’re old.
Internal combustion engines generate a lot of heat and require a cooling system to work efficiently. If your car gets too hot, you can blow a head gasket , warp a cylinder head, or cause irreparable engine damage. Some warning lights are more serious than others and require immediate attention by a mechanic.
Surprisingly, diagnosing issues with this engine component is easy if you pay attention to the bad idler pulley symptoms. The squealing is produced when the drive belt (serpentine belt, alternator belt, or engine belt) rubs against the pulley’s worn-out surface due to insufficient motion from the pulley. to stop functioning.
We organize all of the trending information in your field so you don't have to. Join 5,000+ users and stay up to date on the latest articles your peers are reading.
You know about us, now we want to get to know you!
Let's personalize your content
Let's get even more personalized
We recognize your account from another site in our network, please click 'Send Email' below to continue with verifying your account and setting a password.
Let's personalize your content