The average cost of a car engine replacement for a basic automobile ranges between $2,500-$3,500. For European or luxury cars, this figure can be far higher.
Buying new engines is expensive and car engine prices vary dramatically with every make and model. That said, replacing old engines is essential if you want to keep your car on the road.
These five surefire signs will let you know when it is time to replace your engine. That way, you can get ahead of the curve when it comes to preventing breakdowns.
1. Smoke Means Get a Car Engine Replacement
If you notice smoke coming from under your hood or tailpipe, it could be time for an engine replacement. Black smoke can mean more than one issue but it usually has to do with your emissions system.
Blue smoke is indicative of an oil leak somewhere in your engine and wispy white smoke can indicate a cracked head-gasket or cylinder head. All forms of smoke are bad and indicate you may need a new engine.
2. Your Car Shudders or Shakes
If you notice that your car shudders or shakes when you start it you may have critical engine trouble.
Shaking can be indicative of many different forms of engine trouble but a failing timing belt and bad motor mounts are two big ones.
If you notice your car or engine shaking, take it to a mechanic right away to determine the problem.
3. You Hear a Knocking Noise
Knocking noises when your car starts or has been running for a while is never a good sign. Something could be broken or loose in your engine. The longer you wait to get the noise checked out, the worse the problem can get.
You should self-diagnose a knocking noise only if you have proper mechanics skills. If you don’t, take it to a professional. If you do, take a look at what parts you may need to rebuild your engine.
4. You Are Burning Oil
If every time you change the oil you are a bit low, you notice thick black smoke, or you smell oil, you may have an engine problem.
Burning oil is not good for your engine and can be indicative of a larger problem such as a failing head gasket. Most engines for cars do not run well with any amount of oil in the fuel line. Burning oil can cause them to seize up and fail.
5. You Lose Compression
If your engine loses total compression it will not start. If it still loses partial compression it will misfire and stall. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is time to get your engine checked out and possibly replaced.
Keep Your Engine Functional
Your engine is debatably the most crucial system in your car. Without a functional engine, your car won’t move and will have to be scrapped. Knowing when to get a car engine replacement is part of being a responsible driver.
Get your car engine replaced immediately if you notice any of these five symptoms. For more informative news and advice about cars, check out the rest of our blog.
