It’s
not always easy to recognize when your vehicle is suffering from
engine damage as symptoms can be overlooked and seen as “normal.”
While not all sounds and smells may threaten the life of your engine,
there are some obvious warning signs that require a vehicle
inspection right away.
Early
diagnosis of engine damage can most likely be treated, but it is
important to be aware of potentially damaging symptoms and have the
vehicle inspected if something doesn’t seem right. By acting
quickly and making necessary repairs as soon as possible, you could
be saving yourself from the cost and hassle of breaking down along
the road.
One
of the signs of engine trouble is an illuminated check engine light.
This light indicates that a vehicle system, such as the ignition,
fuel injection or emission control, is not operating properly, even
if the vehicle appears to be running normally. Ignoring the check
engine light can negatively impact your fuel economy or cause damage
resulting in more costly repairs.
Many
motorists are familiar with the noises their vehicles make on a daily
basis. However, any noise that is new, different or suspicious may
indicate a problem, including a high-pitched squeal, grinding or
thumping. Sounds under the hood, such as hissing, can also indicate
that your vehicle is in need of attention.
Although
all cars burn fossil fuels that create undesired emissions, these
odors should remain outside of the car. Unusual smells that could
signal engine damage include: burnt rubber, hot oil, gasoline, sweet
smell of syrup, burning carpet and rotten eggs. When you smell any
peculiar odor, you should not ignore it.
Another
symptom of engine damage is excessive amounts of smoke or steam.
Although some smoke is normal, excessive amounts of dark smoke in
particular indicates that oil is leaking into the combustion chamber
and is being burned along with the gasoline.