It’s important to get to the shop when you first suspect that engine trouble is brewing. By taking action quickly, you’ll have the best chance to avoid needing extremely expensive repairs, or perhaps even engine replacement. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, our local mechanics are experts at completing engine repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area.

The Check Engine Light Illuminates

If your check engine light turns on, it doesn’t automatically indicate that your engine is on the cusp of disaster. Nonetheless, it’s still best to get to the shop for diagnostics so that any emerging issues can be identified and remedied before they worsen.

Warning Signs of an Engine Issue

If there are unusual noises coming from your engine, then you’ll definitely want to figure out what’s causing them ASAP. Knocking/tapping noises could be caused by significant problems such as inadequate lubrication, a bad rod bearing, or a lean air/fuel mixture. If you hear squealing noises, then there’s a good chance you have a serpentine belt issue. Grinding noises could indicate a failing water pump or power steering pump.

There’s also cause for concern if your engine has lost a lot of power. If you drive an older vehicle with high mileage and it has slowly lost a little power, then you don’t necessarily need to worry. But if your engine power has abruptly and significantly dropped, then you could be dealing with a major issue, such as piston or head gasket trouble.

Discolored/excessive exhaust smoke is another issue that should be brought to the mechanic’s attention. Blue-tinged smoke is a sign of an oil leak. Black smoke suggests that too much fuel is being burned. White smoke is a symptom of an internal coolant leak, and could be an indication that you have a blown head gasket.

Engine Repair in Birmingham, AL

When you need engine diagnostics and repair in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our local auto shop, we can complete any of your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!