There are four types of vehicle engines: gasoline, electric, diesel, and hybrid. No matter which type of engine you have, taking care of it is essential to the lifespan of your car.

Whenever you suspect a problem with the engine, take immediate action to prevent severe damages down the line. What are the common signs you need an engine repair? Read on to find out.

• The Check Engine Light Comes On

Vehicle owners know the dreadful feeling of when their check engine light comes on. Although there are a few different reasons it could come on, the engine is usually the culprit.

You may not need a full-on engine repair right away, but it is best to take your car to a mechanic’s shop as soon as possible. A professional can troubleshoot the problem for you before it becomes a bigger concern.

• Knocking Sound

If you hear a knocking sound coming from the engine when you drive, contact an auto repair service right away. This could mean your oil level is low and the noise is being caused by insufficient lubrication.

Sometimes, adding more oil can solve the problem. However, there is a chance your engine may need an entire rebuild.

• Excessive Exhaust Smoke

If you notice excessive smoke coming from the exhaust, you probably have engine problems. Pay close attention to the color of the smoke because it can indicate what the issue is.

If the smoke is white, you may have a coolant leak. Black smoke is a sign of fuel getting burned at an excessive rate. If you notice a bluish color to the smoke, you have an oil leak.

It is best to get in contact with an engine repair company, like aplustransmission.com, when you notice excessive or discolored smoke. Even a simple leak can cause a failing engine.

• Power Loss

A loss of power tends to occur in older vehicles over the years. This isn’t usually a cause for concern, but a sudden and substantial loss in power indicates you need an engine repair.

Along with power loss, you may notice car vibrations. If you have low oil, shaking can occur from the metal-on-metal contact.

A professional technician can complete diagnostics. Bear in mind that a loss of power can happen in older and newer vehicles if proper maintenance is not done.

• Overheating

If your engine is overheating, you can check the coolant and add some in yourself if needed. There may be a leak causing the coolant level to be reduced.

Replacing the coolant is only a temporary fix. Eventually, you’ll need to get the leak repaired to avoid permanent damage to the engine.

Does Your Vehicle Need an Engine Repair?

If you ignore engine problems, severe damages will be the consequence. When you notice any of these five issues with your vehicle, get it checked out by a professional eye.

If you detect the problem early, you can save time and money. Don’t let these issues lead to a complete engine failure.

For more great vehicle advice, check out the auto car section of our blog.