If you plan to hang onto your automobile for a very long time, there may come a point that you will need to replace the engine. Many people don’t want to buy a new car because their existing automobile holds special meaning for them. We understand that here at Stringer Auto Repair, which is why we are here to help if your engine does need to be rebuilt or replaced. We are going to list below five signs that the engine has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
1. Constant Overheating
One common problem with older engines is that they will overheat constantly. This could be because the cooling system needs to be rebuilt, the engine has a cracked head gasket, the engine has a cracked exhaust manifold, or the engine has a cracked engine block. Another thing that will cause the engine to overheat constantly is a faulty catalytic converter. Some of these issues can be repaired by themselves. In the case of the cracked engine block, however, you will need to replace the engine.
2. Metal in the Oil
Another time in which you will need to replace the engine is if there is metal in your motor oil. This is a problem that cannot be repaired because the engine parts are disintegrating. The motor oil picks up the metal shavings as it flows over the disintegrating parts. The engine parts will start to disintegrate if the odometer has extremely high mileage on it or the automobile is quite old.
3. Excessive Exhaust
Another indication of a permanent problem in the engine is excessive exhaust smoke. In other words, your vehicle should never release a ton of black, blue, or white exhaust. If it does, the engine is hemorrhaging fuel, oil, or coolant, respectively. Any of these fluid leaks can cause serious trouble in the engine, especially if the engine is hemorrhaging motor oil.
4. Loud Knocking Noises
Loud knocking noises can be an indication that there is a problem with one of the cylinder blocks. The noise you hear is the pistons banging against the cylinder walls. This happens when the rod bearings get too loose. You may also need to replace your engine if you break a rod. This is something that cannot be repaired.
5. Extreme Power Loss
Finally, extreme power loss that does not point to any particular problem is an indication that your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s engine has reached the end of its life. No matter what we do to try to repair it, the engine will be unable to generate power.
Extend the life of your engine by having Stringer Auto Repair in Johnstown, OH, perform all of the recommended preventative maintenance. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
