This archive report was first published on 22 August 2021.
Warning Signs of a Failing Car Engine ¶
Picture this: you're stuck on the side of the road, smoke billowing out from under the hood. It's a sign that something is amiss, but what could have gone wrong?
According to automotive engineer Miller Kyalo, there are several issues that can cause your car to fail and potentially lead to engine failure. Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke in 2021, Kyalo outlined the key signs that motorists can look out for.
One of the most obvious signs is the check engine light. This light comes in different colors, such as orange, yellow, or amber, depending on the manufacturer. Kyalo noted that in most cases, when the check engine light is on, it could signal a minor issue, or if it flashes, it could indicate a dire issue that needs immediate attention.
"Some of the check engine signals are minor cases, but try as much as possible to rectify the issue as soon as possible," Kyalo advised. "One way to do this is by taking it to the mechanic in order to ensure the issue is resolved. They will tell you how best the issue can be resolved," he stated.
Another sign is overheating. When your car heats too much, it can cause other parts to fail. This happens because of a problem with the cooling system that causes the engine to overheat. Causes of overheating could include a faulty water pump, a faulty electric cooling fan, or a bad thermostat.
"When your car heats too much, it tends to cause other parts to fail," Kyalo noted. "In order to avoid this, motorists should check the temperature gauge on the dashboard, check for smoke from under the hood, and listen for an unusual knocking or bumping sound from the engine - this signifies an overheated engine," he advised.
Ignition switch failure is another common issue. This can cause the vehicle to stall while the engine is operating, cutting off power to the ignition and fuel systems. Kyalo noted that the issue in most cases only needs a quick fix to resolve.
Decreased performance or a drop in fuel efficiency is also a sign of a failing engine. Motor oil plays a key role in the vehicle's mobility, lubricating the engine, cooling engine parts, keeping the engine clean, and preventing deposits from building up. However, the oil ultimately degrades, and for most motorists, they tend to ignore this particular issue by not refueling, causing a negative effect on their engines.
"Motor oil plays a key responsibility in the vehicle's mobility as it lubricates the engine, cools engine parts, keeps the engine clean and prevents deposits from building up," Kyalo noted. "However, the oil ultimately degrades and for most motorists, they tend to ignore this particular issue by not refueling hence causes a negative effect on their engines," he stated.
Remedies for a failing engine include servicing your car after you buy it to keep track of the mileage and ensure proper maintenance. Kyalo advised motorists to change the air cleaner, oil filter, and the oil itself, as well as to check the coolant levels and brake fluid.
"The first thing that every owner should do be it a new or second-hand car, should be to undertake minimum servicing. This involves changing the air cleaner, oil filter, and the oil itself. It's also vital to check the coolant levels, brake fluid," Kyalo stated.
He noted that the majority of motorists might not be in a position to perform all the necessary self-servicing options, hence he advised motorists to source for a reputable and experienced mechanic.
"When you buy a car and take it to a mechanic with no experience, you will be giving that mechanic an opportunity to experiment with your car at your expense," Kyalo stated.
