It can be tough to tell when things are about to go south. In many cases, your car will make no secret of the fact one element or another is reaching its end. It starts with a light. But ultimately, some astute ears might be the tools you need to predict the impending end of your engine's components. The service team at Team Welsh wants to give you a heads up with some warning signs your engine will give to let you know now is the time for action.
Knocking
This may be one of the more obvious signs something is going on with your engine. Many factors could lead to this noise. Most likely, this is caused by an imbalance of air and fuel burning in your engine's cylinders. The best way to address this is by looking at your car's spark plugs. Like anything else, your spark plugs wear down. So, if you hear this noise, it may be time to change out your spark plugs. Another factor could be your car has the wrong octane gasoline in the tank. If this is the issue, check your owner's manual to ensure you get the right vintage on your next trip to the pumps.
Ticking/Tapping
When was the last time you checked your car's oil change? If it has been a while, you may hear this ticking sound? When this sound pops up when you are accelerating or idling, it could be because your engine oil level is low. This is preventable and fixable with a routine oil change and checking your oil level regularly. It is as simple as checking the car's oil dipstick from time to time.
Clicking
This isn't a sound you necessarily want to hear. But it is easy to diagnose and remedy. When you turn your key in the ignition and hear a clicking sound without it turning over, your battery is dead. A jump should temporarily get you back on the road until you get in to get a new battery. Another factor could be your alternator. In which case, you need to replace your alternator.
Rattling
When you hit the highways and step on the gas, you might hear a rattle coming from under the hood. This could result from a few issues, ranging from your valve train, transmission, or damaged engine mounts. Head to our service center in Far Hills, NJ, to let our team diagnose the actual issue and get it right, right away.
Hissing
Those warm New Jersey days can catch up to your engine. This is evident when you hear hissing coming from your engine. Most noticeable when you turn off your car, this is an indication of overheating or leaking coolant. Keep an eye on your temperature gauge to determine how hot your engine is running.
Chirping
This sound occurs when your belts start to get loose or start to wear down. This is a warning to get your engine checked and likely belts replaced.
Scraping
Your engine is a complex system of metal components. When it is in action, it can cause bearings and other elements to wear down, causing the metal to collide and rub against other metal elements. It is best to see our team right away to help put an end to this potentially damaging situation.