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The 10 Most Common Car Engine Problems Revealed

Car engines are more complex than we give them credit for being!  This means, unfortunately, they can experience a number of common problems and issues during their lifetime.  But which problems are the most commonplace?  Let’s take a look.

Dead Battery

This may well be the most common engine problem drivers face today.  Car batteries won’t, sadly, last forever.  Therefore, it’s essential to get your vehicle serviced regularly.  A faulty or dead battery means your engine won’t start at all!

 Alternator Problems

While traditional alternator systems may have been phased out in favour of modern hybrid functionality and electric running, it’s still fairly common to have alternator problems.  This is especially the case with older, used cars.  It’s a fairly simple engine component, but it’s essential in helping to keep your battery running at all times.  If you’re noticing odd smells or a weaker battery, it’s time to get it fixed.

 Lubrication Issues

Your engine needs regular oiling and lubrication to be able to function properly.  If there isn’t enough lubrication between the moving parts of an engine, you could be looking at a potential overheating situation.  It’s best to look into regular servicing to remedy this problem.

 Old Spark Plugs / HT Leads

Spark plugs and HT leads are essential for fuel ignition.  However, they can age over time, meaning that misfiring and long-term engine damage could be risked if they aren’t replaced on a regular basis.  This, again, is a fairly common problem for older, used vehicles.

 Faulty Starter Relay

If your car won’t start at all, it’s likely your starter motor or relay will be at fault.  Symptoms of a faulty starter can include poor vehicle turning, intermittent engine noise, and if your starter simply doesn’t switch off once the engine is up and running.

 Blocked Radiators

Your engine radiators can get clogged up with all kinds of dirt and debris over time.  To avoid this, you’ll need to make sure you use the right coolant, and that it’s kept clean.  Hard water, too, may cause corrosion of your radiators.

 Leaking Coolant

Coolant leaking, too, is a common engine complaint.  As above, it’s important to keep your coolant clean at all times, otherwise you’re going to risk an imbalanced engine temperature – and what’s more, if your coolant level is low on a regular basis, there’s likely to be a leak or fault that needs attending to.

 Oil Pump Failure

Your oil pump is an extremely important facet of your car’s engine.  As discussed above, lubrication is essential for the safe running of your engine’s various parts.  A failing pump will starve your engine of the oil it needs, and this may even occur if you are simply not using the right mixture.

 Ignition Coils

Ignition coils are another essential part of any car engine.  It’s there to help your car engine start, ultimately!  A faulty ignition coil can lead to car stalling or even complete breakdown.  Without the coil, there’s no spark. 

 Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters may well be built to last a lifetime, but that doesn’t mean problems can’t occur.  They’re used to heat up particles from exhaust gas pushed out by the engine.  This means said particles can be converted into carbon dioxide and vapour.  A faulty converter can result in rougher driving and foul smells being emitted.