No matter what type of vehicle you have, engine repair or replacement is one of the costliest services you will ever need. When you suspect an engine issue, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible. Below are a few of the most common signs of engine trouble. Bring your vehicle to Auto Repair Specialist in San Rafael, CA when you need engine repair.

Do You Hear a Loud Knocking Noise?

If you hear a repetitive knocking from under the hood, it’s likely due to engine trouble. Knocking is often caused by worn-out bearings. Bearings begin to wear down once your vehicle reaches the 75,000 mark or the bearings haven’t been properly lubricated. The other parts of your engine are all affected by bearings, so it’s best to take a trip to the mechanic before your engine fails.

The Engine Lacks Power

If your car has been around for several years, it may become more and more difficult to generate power when accelerating. You may have even noticed an issue with idling. There are several reasons for this issue, but most of them are caused by a clogged part. A lack of power could be due to a clogged fuel filter, fuel injector, or air filter. When these parts become plugged up with dirt, they fail to function properly. Poor engine power can also be caused by a dirty exhaust pipe or faulty spark plugs or sensors.

Exhaust Smoke is Pouring Out

If your vehicle is emitting excessive exhaust smoke, it’s hazardous to you and the environment. The color of the smoke can also be used to assess what’s wrong. White smoke generally signals cooling system or injector difficulty, whereas blue smoke frequently indicates an oil leak or other type of oil problem. Black smoke often signifies that the engine is burning too much fuel.

Engine Repair in San Rafael

Our expert mechanics provide professional engine repair in San Rafael for all gas and diesel-powered cars and light trucks. If you've noticed an engine oil leak, increased exhaust smoke, engine knocking noises, the check engine light, or a general decrease in performance or fuel efficiency, see us for engine diagnostics or give us a call at (415) 612-3933 to schedule an appointment! We'll complete a thorough analysis of the situation and let you know what your options are. As necessary, our engine shop can complete an engine swap to restore the driveability of your car or truck without worrying about ongoing issues.