What You Need to Know about Engine Knocking
Knock. Knock. It’s Not A Joke
If you have kids of a certain age or remember a lot about your own childhood, you’re probably familiar with the old “Knock. Knock.” jokes. While these corny sayings can bring a smile, there’s nothing entertaining about hearing your vehicle’s engine knocking as you motor down the road. Perhaps you wonder if your car will make it to your destination. Is there a major problem? Is your engine sustaining damage? U.S. Automotive in Springfield, Missouri (Sunshine St. location), knows all about your transportation’s engine regardless of which make or model you drive. Our professional technicians are happy to provide you with information about engine knocking and make any engine repairs your vehicle may need.
A Few Facts About Engine Knocking
Engine knocking can be caused by a myriad of underlying causes. Since there’s not a single cause, there is also not a sole answer as to how to stop it. If you’re lucky, the noise is only temporary as is the case if your vehicle is straining to maintain speed while climbing a steep hill. If this happens, simply let off the accelerator a bit to reduce the demand. After all, you don’t have to be the first one to reach the top of the mountain. More constant rapping from under the hood can point to other issues. Your engine works using internal combustion. Small, controlled explosions from ignition and compression of air and fuel move mechanical parts, producing power that’s converted to turn the wheels. The process is timed precisely via a timing belt or chain that allows pistons to rise and fall within the cylinders and valves to open and close. If you begin to notice a mild knock, you might try higher quality gasoline (premium) to see if this clears up the problem. Also, be sure your auto has a sufficient amount of oil. (It’s a good idea to get routine oil changes even in the absence of noise.) If it continues, bring your vehicle in for diagnostics and any needed repairs before expensive components sustain extensive damage. The problem could be related to timing, the camshaft, spark plugs, a bad valve, or other culprits. While you can probably drive the automobile locally to reach our shop, it’s a bad idea to drive long term. That could cause major trouble or even catastrophic engine failure (engine blow up).
Your Local Engine Repair Specialists
U.S. Automotive is home to your team of engine repair specialists. We can accurately diagnose the cause of your engine knock, and the repairs we make are covered by a 36-month/36,000 mile warranty. You can even take advantage of a financing option and the convenience of a loaner car.
