Engine Failure: What Are the Signs?
Engine failure is easily one of the most frightening nightmare scenarios for drivers. Not only will engine failure completely make your car unusable, but it is also one of the most expensive problems to fix. Luckily, as this guide will show, before your engine experiences a catastrophic failure, there are many signs to look out for. They include:
Rough Idle
Rough idling occurs when a vehicle experiences shakes, rattling noises, and inconsistent RPMs when it is idle. Normally, a vehicle’s idle state should be quiet and uneventful. When this occurs, you should immediately book an appointment with your mechanic.
Excessive or Dark Exhaust Fumes
Under ideal conditions, your vehicle’s exhaust emissions should be almost unnoticeable – especially if you have a modern car model. When you start noticing an increase in exhaust fumes, and when the smoke takes on darker shades, then som
ething is not right with your engine. Apart from the danger of engine failure, poor emissions have a negative impact on the air quality and global warming.
Increased Engine Noise
Most car owners come to understand their car’s ‘normal’ sound, especially after longtime use. This is important since increased, or unusual, engine noise is one of the earliest signs that all is not well with the engine. Have a mechanic check out your engine as soon as you notice something is ‘off’ with engine sound.
Performance Drop
Any machine, vehicles included, perform at their best when they are in optimal mechanical condition. This is why every major engine problem has an immediate impact on performance. When you notice that your car takes longer to accelerate to cruising speed or is struggling on hilly terrain, then it’s time to contact your mechanic.
