Normal vs. Abnormal Engine Noises
Few sounds are more soothing than the low hum of an idling engine. Even for vehicles with louder engines, it’s easy to identify that consistent, smooth sound when you press the gas pedal.
Therefore, hearing abnormal engine noises, such as grinding or squeaking with your car running, can be unnerving. Such noise often indicates engine problems. Prompt diagnosis and fixing the problem can help prevent further engine damage.
At Sierra Blanca Motors, our technicians can identify and fix noises from engines in Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM vehicles. Read on to learn more about the different engine noises to look out for and what they mean.
Engine Misfire Sounds
Engine misfire is one of the engine noises that’s hard to miss. A misfiring engine will let out popping sounds in between gas pedal presses. The engine will sound generally rough while idling, and you may also hear what sounds like a minor explosion from time to time.
Common causes of engine misfire sound include problems with the ignition system (especially the spark plugs), mechanical failures affecting the cylinder (which leads to problems with the air-fuel mixture and poor burn or compression), and problems with the emission equipment.
The main repair options for engine misfire sounds include replacing spark plugs, fixing faulty ignition components, and addressing fuel delivery problems. Your technician will determine the best repair approach to take after isolating possible causes of the problem.
Pinging Engine Noise
Engine pinging, also known as engine knock, is a type of rattling engine noise you’ll likely hear during acceleration. It’s another sign of problems in the combustion chamber. Don’t confuse this sound with the grinding noise from a faulty serpentine belt.
Some common causes of pinging engine sounds include faulty spark plugs, using the wrong type of fuel for your car’s engine, low oil level, problems with the oxygen sensor, problems with the coolant system, and a buildup of carbon deposits in the engine.
The repair options for these engine noises depend on the causes. For example, switching to a higher-octane fuel per your engine manufacturer’s recommendations can fix fuel-related engine pinging. Fixing the oxygen sensor can ensure proper airflow to prevent pinging noise.
Engine Sputtering Sound
You might hear a sputtering sound when you step on the gas. The default assumption when it happens is that you’re about to run out of gas. However, if a glance at the fuel gauges suggests otherwise, you have more serious underlying issues.
Some of the top causes of engine sputtering sounds include problems in the fuel system (including the filter, pump, and injectors), worn-out spark plugs, a dirty airflow sensor, and a failing catalytic converter.
Repairing the engine sputtering sound often involves cleaning dirty components like fuel filters and air sensors. On the other hand, faulty spark plugs and catalytic converters generally need replacing.
The technician will run a complete diagnosis and recommend the right course of action.
How To Fix Engine Noise Issues With Sierra Blanca Motors
When you hear abnormal engine noises, it’s time to swing into action. Ignoring it and hoping it will go away only increases the likelihood of serious engine damage.
The first thing you should do is identify the specific engine noise. Is the engine sputtering or making a pinging sound? Armed with the information, your communications with our technicians will be more straightforward.
Our technicians diagnose engine noises in different ways, including conducting a visual inspection, hooking up diagnostic equipment to the engine, and completing sound tests for better accuracy.
Fixing the engine noise often involves minor adjustments to key components, cleaning the engine, or replacing components. The approach to fixing engine noises will vary from one vehicle to the other and will depend on the type of noise.
Sierra Blanca Motors for Expert Diagnosis and Repair
When you hear abnormal engine noises, it’s crucial to accurately diagnose the cause to avoid significant engine damage. Timely service is key since it will ensure your car keeps running.
At Sierra Blanca Motors, we provide reliable and effective diagnosis and repair of engine noises. We know how unsettling these sounds can be. Therefore, our technicians leave no stone unturned in fixing the underlying cause of the noise to ensure your peace of mind.
Call Sierra Blanca Motors today or visit our offices to fix that engine noise.
