Your vehicle relies on a powerful engine to function well. When it is running correctly, you'll be provided with a smoothe, worry-free ride. However, sometimes, problems occur, and many can be resolved with simple repairs. In other instances, you may need to replace it entirely. Here are three signs that it’s time to consider a new engine.

When Do You Need a New Engine?

1. Excess Smoke

It’s never a good sign when you see smoke emanating from your vehicle. If you spot any coming from the tailpipe, an engine problem is likely to blame. Your mechanic will assess the smoke’s color to make a more accurate diagnosis. If it’s white, for example, that usually means the cooling system is leaking and causing it to overheat. Black smoke means that it is burning too much gas, while blue smoke is an indication that both oil and gasoline are burning together. That means there’s not enough lubrication, which could create issues such as corrosion and friction.

2. Power Failure

When the engine stops working altogether, it’s clear that there’s a significant problem. You may notice small signs of trouble in advance of this event, and it’s essential to pay close attention to them. For example, it might be challenging to maneuver the car uphill, or it may take a while for it to gain speed. These are general signs of wear and tear, but they also indicate that the engine is nearing the end of its lifespan. A repair may be enough at that stage, but when it stops entirely, then your mechanic will likely need to replace it entirely.

3. Knocking Sounds

The engine features several moving components that are situated on bearings. Over time, those bearings suffer wear and tear—but that problem can occur much faster if it isn’t well lubricated. If that’s the case, you’ll hear a loud knocking noise that gets increasingly worse with time. This occurs when parts are scraping against one another, and this often leads to internal damage that you may not see in a regular inspection. You may need to rebuild the lower portion of the engine in this instance, but an auto parts expert should always handle this.

Drivers throughout Carroll, IA, trust the team at Quandt Auto Salvage for all of their auto parts. The family-owned auto salvage yard is available to help you find the perfect part for your vehicle, whether it’s an engine or a front bumper. If you are experiencing any issues with your car, they can help you evaluate your needs, provide advice, and send you home with the correct part. Visit them online to find out more about their aftermarket car parts, or call them at (800) 522-1903.