Identifying The Root Cause Of Engine Noise

Cars that were built a generation ago had a relatively simple design compared to those rolling off factory floors today. The engine, in particular, had fewer moving parts. Vehicles today are equipped with engines that are far more powerful and efficient. They are also much more complex, which means a greater number of things can go wrong.

In most cases, your vehicle will issue warning signs that indicate there is a problem with the engine. For example, the “check engine” light will usually go on, the assembly might misfire during acceleration, or a rough idle may become increasingly pronounced as the underlying issue worsens over time. Your engine might also make uncharacteristic sounds. When this happens, it is important to know how to troubleshoot the root cause, so you can address it. This article will offer a quick guide to doing so.

Tapping

If you hear tapping from your engine, there’s a good chance the oil level is low. Motor oil is essential to the assembly’s smooth operation because it provides lubrication for the moving parts. Without it, components will begin to make contact with each other.

One of the reasons this occurs is because of thermal expansion. As heat surrounding the engine rises, the metal from which the moving parts are designed expand. This reduces the amount of clearance that exists between them. If the oil level is low, there will be too little lubrication, and tapping can result. Replenish the oil level as soon as possible to avoid damage.

Knocking

This sound usually indicates that the fuel inside one or more cylinders is exploding out of sync with the spark generated by the spark plug. It is commonly called “spark knock,” and occurs when excess heat builds up in the cylinder. Because the timing of the cylinder’s valves and piston are thrown off, they collide. Both may become damaged.

Spark knock can occur for a number of reasons, including an excessive compression ratio in the cylinder and a malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. An overheating engine combined with low-octane fuel can also cause the problem.

You might also hear a deep knocking noise that sounds as if something is being struck by a hammer. This is typically caused by rod bearings that have become severely worn. When a bearing fails, your engine may sustain damage.

Squeaking

This noise can be generated by an assortment of small parts throughout the engine. A common cause is that one or more of the pulleys around which the timing belt moves has become loose. You can check the pulleys easily by turning the engine off, lifting the hood, and feeling for tension in the belt. If there is inadequate tension, check the individual pulleys, and replace the one that is about to fail.

If the tension in the timing belt is fine, check the pulleys near other components, such as the A/C’s compressor and alternator. When they come loose, they can make the same squeaking sound.

Shaking

At times, you may hear a knock-like shaking sound coming from the bottom part of the engine. This can be caused by something simple, such as carbon deposits having formed on one or more pistons. Such deposits often develop over time as a result of the combustion cycle. Unfortunately, fixing this problem requires taking the engine apart, a job that is usually expensive due to the labor involved.

Some of the noises described above may occur in the absence of an obvious reason. Avoid neglecting the noise. If you suspect there is a problem in your engine, have a technician perform a test. Even though doing so costs money, the investment is worthwhile since ignoring a strange sound can lead to a costly engine overhaul down the road.

The Step-By-Step Guide To Changing Your Car’s Spark Plugs

If you crank your engine and experience a hard start, there’s a good chance the problem involves your spark plugs. They are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture within your engine’s cylinders. Unfortunately, they become fouled over time. Constant exposure to the combustion process results in a buildup of deposits on the plugs that eventually prevents them from delivering a sufficient spark. They need to be changed in order to maintain the efficient operation of your engine. Otherwise, you’ll experience misfires, difficulty accelerating, a rough idle, and poor gas mileage.

Fortunately, changing your spark plugs is easy. If you have the right tools, you should be able to change a set of four plugs in less than an hour. With a little experience, you may be able to do so in half the time. This article will provide step-by-step details to walk you through the process.

Step 1: Gather The Tools For The Job

Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need within reach. Besides the replacement spark plugs, you’ll need a ratchet wrench, plug socket, and socket extensions. You should also have lubrication to grease the plugs’ threads as well as a gapping tool (though the gapping tool is optional). Lastly, it’s a good idea to use protective goggles since debris can become airborne and pose a danger to your eyes.

Step 2: Locate The Plugs And Remove The Wires

Lift the hood of your vehicle and find the thick hoses sprawled across the top of your engine. At the end of each hose, you’ll find a spark plug. In a typical 4-cylinder engine, the plugs are located along the top of the assembly and positioned in a straight line. They’re very easy to access. On a typical 8-cylinder configuration, the plugs are positioned on the sides of the engine. They are more difficult to reach, but still doable.

Because the cylinders follow a specific firing order, remove the plug wires one at a time. If you remove all of the wires at once, you’ll risk reinserting them incorrectly. Grab each wire at the base and pull upward.

Step 3: Take Out The Old Plugs

After you have removed the first plug wire, grab your ratchet wrench. Attach the socket extension and plug socket onto it and fit the socket over the spark plug. It should form a snug fit. Turn the ratchet to unscrew the plug from its slot.

Step 4: Install The Replacement Plugs

When installing the replacement spark plug, be careful. Avoid pushing or forcing the plug into the slot since doing so can damage the threads and the new plug. Simply position it in the slot and screw it in by hand. If you feel resistance, unscrew the plug to reposition it, and then start over. Once the replacement spark plug has been screwed in as far as it will go by hand, use the ratchet wrench to finish the job. The plug should fit firmly in place.

Next, attach the plug wire to the replacement spark plug and double-check the connection before moving on to the next plug.

Step 5: Crank The Engine To Test The Installation

If you have completed the steps as described for each plug, you should be able to start your car with no problem. Turn the key and test your installation. If your engine idles roughly or misfires immediately upon starting your car, that’s a sign you have installed the plug wires out of firing order. You’ll need to confirm the order (you can find the information online), review your installation, and make any necessary changes.

Plan to replace your spark plugs every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. Even if you suspect they’re in good condition, it’s better to replace them than wait for them to become fouled and ineffective. They’re inexpensive, which makes a set of replacements a wise investment.

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