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Having car problems? Does your car refuse to start sometimes? Maybe you experience lapses in power while driving? There’s a good chance you have a problem with your engine.
If you think your auto needs engine repair, it could be related to many factors. An internal combustion engine has lots of parts, and there are other parts connected to it that could be causing the problem as well. The engine is the place where fuel is converted to energy.
A modern auto body engine works on the same principle as the old steam locomotives, but uses the combustive properties of gasoline, and a precise distribution method to keep adding just the right amount of fuel in a constant cycle. The explosion from one chamber not only pushes a piston that turns the drive shaft, but in so doing pushes another piston back into its chamber to prepare it for firing. A distributor makes sure that each chamber gets fuel at the right time and in the right amount, spark plugs cause tiny sparks when the fuel is compressed to the right pressure by the piston, and the timing belt makes sure the individual pistons are all in the right place at the right time. These are all essential components of your car’s engine, and if there’s a problem with any one of them, it will make itself known immediately.
Most engine repairs should probably be handled by a qualified mechanic. Especially with newer cars, which are increasingly monitored and controlled by internal computers, much of the repairs and maintenance you will need require very specific equipment.
Some things you may be able to do at home are changing the oil and replacing the timing belt. Both should be done regularly, rather than waiting for a problem to arise. Many engines can be damaged by a faulty timing belt, because some of the pistons will continue to go while others freeze up; replacing the belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles is far simpler and more manageable than costly auto body engine repairs.
Checking the level of your oil regularly is a good idea too. Most cars come with a dipstick inside the oil tank, so you only have to unscrew it and wipe it off. If the level is below the mark on the stick, add a quart of whatever oil your manual recommends.
Changing the oil is a different story. This requires draining all of the oil from the engine, disposing of it properly, and replacing all of it at once. Your car will have to be jacked up and supported well, because you will need to access the bottom. You’ll put a receptacle in place to catch the oil, then open the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. When the oil is out, the oil filter will need to be changed and the engine filled with fresh oil. The old oil can be taken to a service station to be recycled.
Replacing a timing belt is a much more complicated procedure, and is different for different models. If it’s possible to replace yours without a mechanic, you can probably find the information online or in the owner’s manual. Whether you attempt it yourself or pay a technician, you should replace it before it begins to cause problems, to avoid more costly auto body repairs.
