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What are the Symptoms of a Blown Head Gasket?

What are the Symptoms of a Blown Head Gasket?

A head gasket is a ringed panel that comes between the engine block and cylinder head. It works by acting as a barrier to prevent engine fluid from leaking into its cylinders. It also blocks off water and oil conduits from getting mixed with the fuel. Unfortunately, the gasket head is located next to a hot section of the engine. If either the cylinder head or engine block expands from overheating, it causes the head gasket to fail. The engine may also experience detonation, damaging the fire rings or armors in the process. This event causes the cylinder pressure to leak past the fire rings and damage the head gasket. Symptoms of a Blown Head Gasket: 1. Overheating: Overheating happens when oil leaks into the coolant system, lowering its ability to cool off the car's engine. Most engines experience elevated temperatures, especially when driving at low speeds. 2. A mix-up of coolant and oil: The engine oil helps lubricate the moving parts. However, it leaks into ... read more

What are the Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain?

What are the Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain?

A timing chain is one of the integral components of an internal combustion engine, without which efficient vehicle operations are impossible. Its failure can result in extensive engine damage costing the owner a fortune in repairs. What is a Timing Chain? Composed of metal links, a timing chain runs along a set of gears to rotate the crankshaft and camshaft and regulates the opening and closing of the engine valves in coordination with the firing pistons. Since the timing chain is housed inside the engine, it receives its lubrication from the engine oil, which is essential for its smooth functions. Despite having a metallic composition, timing chains can wear off, get loose, or break due to stress. Signs of a Faulty Timing Chain A worn timing chain exhibits some symptoms that signify that the timing chain is not functioning properly. These signs include: Rattling Sound on Starting the Engine or Idling A common finding in a vehicle with a bad timing chain is unusual rattling noise ... read more

What Happens When I Don't Change My Engine Oil?

What Happens When I Don't Change My Engine Oil?

Engine oil is critical to the overall operation of your vehicle, and skipping oil changes can lead to engine damage, a decrease in performance, and more.  Below is what can happen as a result of not changing your engine oil on time and regularly:  Your engine oil becomes dirty The color of new, clean engine oil is amber, however, this changes as it becomes dirty. Engine oil collects dust and other particles from the engine. While this keeps the engine free of this debris, they darken the color of the oil and change its texture and thickness. Engine oil reduces friction inside the engine and protects against wear. With dirty, clogged oil, this friction increases due to its roughness, inciting the erosion of the engine's components. Your engine becomes less efficient The continuous metal-on-metal contact can be damaging to an engine, which is why engine oil is important. It reduces this damage by acting like a protective layer that coa ... read more

How Do I Know If My Shocks and Struts Are Going Bad?

How Do I Know If My Shocks and Struts Are Going Bad?

Struts and Shocks in a car are essential elements that maintain a comfortable and smooth ride on the road. Unfortunately, realizing when to replace the shocks and struts might be challenging because they are among the components that go bad slowly. These parts are not easy to observe, and observation might require disassembling, which is not cost-effective or even convenient to any driver. The car has unique ways of communication trouble to the driver. A good car owner pays attention to the car and listens to its needs to detect possible problems with any comment. Struts and shocks also communicate trouble to the driver. These are some of the symptoms of faulty shocks and struts: Decreased Stability and Control When shocks and struts are worn out, it becomes challenging to maintain control of the vehicle. It might slide to one side when turning. Driving in bumpy or harsh roads, the ride becomes very uncomfortable and intense. Increased Stopping Distance Paying attention to the sto ... read more

A Guide to Dashboard Lights

A Guide to Dashboard Lights

Your vehicle has a computer system that uses the dashboard to alert you of any issues. These lights provide vital information about how your car is functioning, helping you prevent long-term damage. No one ever expects the dashboard lights to illuminate, and they may not be completely familiar with their meaning. Does the check engine light mean you need maintenance right away, or is it an issue that's easily solvable? Below is a brief description of a few standard dashboard lights to help you decipher what may be the underlying issue.  Battery Light  The battery light is pretty easy to spot because it's a small rectangle with a plus and minus sign on the inside. If the battery light is on, the battery may need to be charged or replaced. In some circumstances, there may be a problem with the alternator. The alternator and battery work hand-in-hand to supply electricity to the battery. An issue with either of them will cause the battery light to shine.  Oil Pre ... read more