HESCO Automotive & Performance Center Blog

Your car's engine is the heart of your vehicle, and when it starts showing signs of trouble, it’s crucial to address them quickly. Ignoring engine issues can lead to more expensive repairs or even complete engine failure. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are five common signs of an engine problem. Abnormal Noises Strange noises coming from your engine—such as knocking, ticking, or grinding—often indicate a serious problem. These sounds could be caused by low oil levels, worn-out components, or internal damage. If you notice any unusual engine noises, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic immediately. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Excessive smoke coming from your exhaust is a clear indication of engine trouble. Different smoke colors can signal various problems. Blue smoke suggests an oil leak, white smoke could indicate an internal coolant leak, and black smoke often points to an overly rich fuel mixture. Any unusual exhaust emissions should be addressed promptly. Decreased Performance If your vehicle struggles to accelerate or stalls frequently, there’s likely an issue with the engine. Common culprits include a clogged fuel filter, failing spark plugs, or issues with the fuel injectors. Poor engine performance not only affects drivability, but can also reduce fuel-efficiency. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated diagnostic systems, and the check engine light is one of the most important alerts. Ignoring warning lights can allow minor issues to become major repairs. Common check engine light triggers include issues with catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and MAF sensors. Rough Idling or Stalling An engine that idles roughly or stalls unexpectedly is often a sign of trouble. This issue could stem from problems with the fuel system or spark plugs. A smoothly running engine should idle without pronounced vibrations. Engine Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need engine repair in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

The check engine light is one of the most important warning indicators in your vehicle. It’s designed to alert you to potential problems that may affect your car’s performance, safety, or emissions. While it can sometimes indicate a minor issue, ignoring it could lead to more expensive repairs. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are five common reasons why your check engine light might illuminate. Faulty Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust system. This data helps the engine control module adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal performance. When the oxygen sensor fails, it can send incorrect readings, causing the engine to run inefficiently. A faulty sensor may reduce fuel-economy and increase emissions. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap A loose or damaged gas cap might seem like a trivial issue, but it can trigger the check engine light. The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it isn’t tightly secured, fuel might evaporate before your engine gets the chance to run on it. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, helping to regulate the air-fuel ratio. If the MAF sensor malfunctions, it can cause issues such as rough idling, reduced fuel-efficiency, and even stalling. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter does the vital job of converting harmful gasses into less polluting substances. If the converter is failing, it can cause your check engine light to come on. Symptoms of a failing catalytic converter include reduced engine performance, poor fuel-economy, and an increase in emissions. Faulty Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs The ignition coil and spark plugs work together to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. When these parts are worn out or malfunctioning, they can cause misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel-efficiency. A failing ignition system component will often trigger the check engine light. Check Engine Light Diagnostics & Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need engine diagnostics and repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!