Category Archives: Uncategorized

What could cause the check engine light to come on?

When your check engine light comes on it means your car’s computer has detected a malfunction. What that malfunction is could mean different things:

• A loose gas cap
• Faulty ignition coils
• Faulty spark plugs
• Faulty catalytic converter
• Faulty oxygen sensor
• Faulty mass airflow sensor
• Faulty evaporative emissions purge solenoid
• Faulty fuel injector

Can low oil cause the check engine light to come on?

Another reason your check engine light might come on is low oil pressure. If your oil pressure is low, however, the oil light will also come on. Low oil pressure occurs because of wear and tear on your oil pump or from letting air in the pump or putting too much oil in it.

Can check engine light come on when cold?

Extremely cold temperatures could cause your check engine light to come on. If ice forms near electrical components it’s possible false voltage readings could result. The computer codes should be checked to make sure this is the case.

Can check engine light come on for no reason?

If your check engine light comes on, there will always be a reason for it. It’s not, however, always indicative of a major malfunction in your car’s fuel or emissions system. A loose gas cap or an electrical issue, including a faltering or dead battery, could cause the light to come on. The only way to be certain of what’s causing the problem is to have it diagnosed at an auto repair shop because the light could also indicate serious problems like faulty coils or a bad catalytic converter.

Will check engine light reset itself?

Whenever you’ve repaired the issue that caused the check engine light to come on, the light should normally reset itself. This process could actually take some time. So don’t be alarmed if the light stays on for a short period after the repair is made. The car may need to be driven several cycles—or driven until it warms up before stopping—for the light to reset. If the light takes some time to reset, you might have to reset it using an OBD reader, the diagnostic tool technicians use to scan the fault codes. Disconnecting the battery will also cause the light to reset.

What causes check engine light to flash?

If your check engine light is flashing, this normally indicates a repair is urgently needed. Flashing lights are often indicative of one of these problems:

• A defect in the ignition system could include bad spark plugs, hoses, coils, or wires.
• A faulty fuel system including temperature sensors, fuel injectors, or coolant.
• The engine is damaged internally, which could mean the cylinder heads, the pistons and rings, or the timing belt.

How can I check my engine light for free?

Several options are available to test your check engine light for free. You can download an OBD reader app to your smartphone that connects by Bluetooth to your car’s computer. Some auto parts chains provide free diagnostics and some repair shops also provide free diagnostics. Rolling Auto Service provides a free check engine light diagnostic with the purchase of another service.

Why anti lock brakes are important?

When vehicle brakes lock up, the vehicle typically goes into a skid, taking it longer to stop, diminishing the driver’s ability to safely control and steer the vehicle. This anti-brake system works with wheel speed sensor that monitors each wheel and when the wheels are going into a skid, hydraulic pressure is temporarily reduced. 

When the anti-lock brake system engages, there typically isn’t time for the driver to think and react. They will have their foot on the brake pedal already and feel a grinding or pumping motion. This is from the antilock brake pump metering the braking pressure through the valve assembly. The tires will make a screeching noise as they skid. 

The anti-brake system is for a panic stop situation and doesn’t stop the vehicle faster. It does allow for the driver to maintain control of the steering, with the goal of avoiding any danger, not go into a skid and slide into the situation. 

What are the benefits of anti lock brakes?

 An anti-lock brake system coordinates the activity from wheels with sensors. Those sensors regulate the brake pressure as needed so that each wheel operates in a analogous speed range. The benefits of anti-lock brakes are: .

• Slippery Roads: An anti-lock brake system will keep a vehicle from locking up and going into a kid on slippery roads like ice or rains mentioned earlier, an anti-lock brake system prevents lock-ups and skidding, even in slippery conditions. 
• Insurance Costs: Because anti-lock brake systems have been thoroughly tested and proven to be an effective safety device, insurance companies offer discounts for safety features on their client’s vehicles.  
• Resale Value: Anti-lock brake system raises the re-sale value of vehicle. Without an anti-lock brake system, a vehicle wouldn’t be worth as much resale. 
• Traction: An Anti-lock brake system and new technology share traction control system infrastructure, making the build of both features easier in manufacturing. 

How should you use anti lock brakes in emergency?

To get the most effectiveness from our anti-lock brake system, you will learn a different technique than you have used with other vehicles before anti-lock brakes were introduced. Much like when you were learning to drive, got to a large empty parking lot and practice braking by driving a speed over 10mph an applying the brakes. 

Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System Instructions

• Slam the brakes as in an emergency stop, this stops the skidding that normally would happen.
• You will feel a vibration and hear clicking as brakes come to a stop. 
• Do not pump the brakes – that deactivates the anti-lock brake system. 
• The anti lock brakes will take effect when you have your foot pressed firmly on the brake pedal while steering.

Rear-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System Instructions

• In a vehicle equipped with rear-wheel anti-lock brake system, typically trucks, the front wheels will lock up just like the conventional brake system.
• If front wheels appear to lock up, ease pressure on the brake pedal so the front wheels allow you to steer the vehicle to safety.

The car should have an anti-lock brake system warning light on the dash to alert you of any system malfunction. If that light comes on as you drive, the anti-lock brake system is disabled, and the standard non anti-lock brake operation begins. 

What are anti lock brakes most effective?

The anti lock brakes are most effective when your tires have good contact with the road and brakes are applied firmly and promptly. The sensors on the wheels of anti-lock brake system detect when wheels are beginning to lock as the driver slams on in an emergency (normal driver reaction). They then reduce the braking power on the locking wheels, helping to maintain traction and help the driver control the steering. This stops the car quicker and safer. 

The differential allows those different speeds and keeps your car powered in the process. All of the power in an engine goes through the differentials. So, is there a difference between a rear and front differential? Yes, because the front wheels travel at a different speed than rear wheels, there is a differential between the two front wheels and one in between the two rear wheels.  

Is differential service necessary?

Yes! The differential uses oil, thicker than the oil that goes in the engine. Changing the oil in the differential is as important as the engine oil change because over time, the oil wears thin and becomes contaminated. Like the engine, without the oil, the differential will start having metal-to-metal contacting that will wear the differential out. 

The differentials on most vehicle should be changed at about 50,000 miles. However, that can vary based on the mileage of the vehicle and the travel conditions, like dirt roads, your vehicle may need differential service more frequent. 

What is the differential service?

Differential service with a mechanic or technician will include draining the old fluid from the differentials and replace it with new fluid according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations and specifications.

The rear differential service is a little different in the fact that the mechanic or technician will perform a          Differential service and fluid flush before putting in the new fluid. This is typically recommended to be done every 30,000 to 35,00 miles, and definitely before 50,000 miles. Many mechanics will suggest having the Differential service and tires rotated at the same time, making it easier to remember getting the differential service performed on a timely basis. 

Can you overfill a differential?

There is a fill hole on most differentials that may have a rubber plug covering it. This makes it easy for the mechanic or technician to check the fluid. Overfilling the differential can cause the seals to push through the vent tube. When this happens, the axle seals must be replaced. Because it can be too easy to do this, and the fact that draining the old fluid is extremely messy, having a professional mechanic or technician perform your differential service is always recommended.

What does a bad differential sound like?

Just as you pay attention to the oil change for the engine, the differential needs that same attention. The differential in your vehicle needs to be working properly for longevity of your vehicle and safety. Some indicators that your vehicle’s differential is having problems would be: 

• Leaking Oil: If you see what appears to be oil dripping from under the vehicles at one of the axles, you need professional differential service immediately. 
• Strange Noises: A differential that is going bad will often make loud rattling or whirring noises. If you’re hearing these noises from under the car, see differential service. 
• Vibrating: Of you notice an unusual vibration while driving, it could be differential and is worth taking it to your mechanic for a differential service check.  
• Unusual Odor: As differential oil ages, it can start to smell like it is burning. When you smell burning oil, it is time to get a differential service. 

Next to your home, your vehicle is an expensive and important investment. Just like your home, you should follow the recommended maintenance schedule of major components like a differential service, oil changes, and tire rotations. These are considered preventive maintenance and will extend the life of your car. Call 941-493-6511 today for your differential repair in Venice, FL.

How Long Do RV Engines Last?

RV engines can last quite a while, exhibiting great durability and longevity. Generally speaking, motorhomes can last around twenty years or 200,000 miles. When motor homes are cleaned and managed correctly, and repairs are completed in a timely manner, RVs can last quite a bit longer.

Does RV Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Are you wondering whether or not your RV insurance will cover any recent water damage? Ultimately the terms of your insurance will dictate whether your water damage will be covered monetarily. For example, comprehensive coverage is a kind of coverage that protects a motorhome from damages that are not due to an accident. This follows the same logic as many insurance policies. Common issues will include fire, hail, and water damage. It’s important to consider that comprehensive coverage does not guarantee water damage protection on its own.

How Often Should You Recoat an RV Roof?

When was the last time your RV roof received a proper coating? Most if not all experienced RV campers recommend that RV owners go over their RV roof coating and reinforce seams with RV roof sealant at least once a year. While this may seem unnecessary, the roof of your RV receives a lot of damage due to UV rays and weather. The integrity of your vehicle is important which is why it is critical to recoat the roof of your RV when necessary.

What is the Best Flooring for an RV?

Are you wondering what the best flooring will be for your RV? According to leading experts in the RV industry, vinyl is considered the best type of floor tile for RVs. That is because vinyl is a very versatile material. For example, it is easy to find vinyl tiles, sheets, and planks with fairly simple installation systems. 

RV Repair Near Me

Do you need to locate RV repair near you? If so, please review the following procedure to discover how to locate RV repair near your location.

• The first thing that you should do is ask a friend or neighbor for a referral. If your friend or neighbor has a good opinion of a certain auto shop, you can give them a call and check out their services over the phone.
• The next thing that you can do is use your smartphone or computer to search the world wide web. Into your preferred search engine, type the term: “RV Repair near me.” By typing this term into your search engine, you will have the opportunity to review automotive shops that are near you and offer relevant services.

RV Repair Near Me Open Sunday

When you need RV repairs, you can expect to need them not only on weekdays but on weekends. If you need RV repair on a Sunday, it will be important for you to search the internet with the right search term. The business that will be open for repairs may not be close to your location, which is why it is best to do a cost-benefit analysis concerning the appropriate time to get RV repairs.

RV Repair Near Me Now

If you are on a road trip and are driving your RV, the worst thing that can happen is your RV breaking down. In such a circumstance, it will be important to search for local places, and possibly invest in a tow truck to move your RV to the auto shop. It is also important to consider the hours of the RV repair shop that you select. Each auto shop will be slightly different and have different hours.

If you need RV repair near me in Venice, FL, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 941-493-6511.

How do I make my car air conditioner colder?

No matter how hot it is, there are times it might seem the car air conditioning never gets cold enough. While this could mean the AC has a problem like low refrigerant, you can also make some adjustments to get your car cooler inside. If you’re driving alone, for instance, you can shut off the vents on the passenger side, so all the cold air blows your way. In addition, point vents toward you so the air flows directly toward you. Moreover, it doesn’t have to be all that hot outside to push your vehicle’s interior temperature to scorching when it’s sitting in the sun. If you park in the shade or place shades on the window, your car stays cooler inside and it takes less time for the AC to cool you off. Also, the faster you accelerate, the more power is drawn away from the air conditioning. Staying at steady speeds keeps you cooler.

What should car air conditioning temperature be?

When outdoor temperatures are between 70 and 80 degrees the AC’s temperature should be 35 to 48 degrees when the AC is run on “max” settings. Outlet temperatures in the 40s tend to be ideal.

How long does car AC last?

Car air conditioning is fairly sturdy, and even in hotter climates, where it might be used year-round, it’s possible the system could last as long as the car itself. This will all depend on the make and model of the car and your overall maintenance and service. A compressor—the AC’s main component—will last on average about eight to 10 years, which is about the average length of time people hold onto their cars. Some systems might experience refrigerant leaks or need a refrigerant recharge and refrigerant recharges last about three years.

Does car air conditioning need servicing?

Like all of your car’s components, the air conditioner can be subject to wear and tear, especially if it’s used frequently. Getting it checked out when you perform other maintenance services is always a good idea. Common problems usually have to do with the refrigerant, and if your AC isn’t cooling, one of the first things to have a professional check is for refrigerant leaks. Worn belts might cause the AC to rattle or bang around, and the belts will need to be replaced. You should also get the AC checked out if mildewy or moldy odors are coming from the vents, as this could indicate mold is present somewhere in the system.

How long does it take to fix AC in a car?

Repair times will vary for car air conditioning. A refrigerant recharge might take about half an hour. Repairing or replacing a compressor, on the other hand, might take three to five hours.

Is it OK to start car with AC on?

No harm is done when you start the car with the air conditioning on. When you first crank the engine all power to accessories like the car air conditioning are shut off so maximum power goes to getting the engine started. All power is restored to accessories once the car is started. Accessories like the AC are designed to be turned on quickly, so the AC won’t be harmed.

Does car air conditioning use gas?

Yes, the car’s air conditioner uses gas because it’s drawing its energy from the alternator, and the alternator is powered by the engine. But, you’re actually not wasting gas when running the AC. In fact, in some instances, while driving at highway speeds, running the AC is more fuel-efficient than driving with the windows down. That’s because driving with the windows down causes more drag, making the vehicle less aerodynamic. The car’s engine then has to work harder and burns more fuel in turn. 

Although you’re unlikely to get sick running your car air conditioning in Venice, FL, if your air conditioner isn’t running properly, you can get help fast from Rolling Auto Service. We come out directly to you for all our services. To get help, all you need to do is call 941-493-6511.

What is a tune up and how much does it cost?

A minimal tune up will consist of cleaning and replacing spark plugs yet if you have platinum spark plunges they probably won’t need to be changed as often. With older cars in addition to cleaning and replacing spark plugs the rotor and distributor cap are done as well. The price for a minimal tune up will typically range from $40-$150. 

What is included in a full tune up?

A full tune up includes more areas being cleaned and replaced beyond spark plugs such as wires, rotor, distributor cap, PVC valve, fuel filter and air filter. It will also include inspecting and diagnosing the fuel, emissions systems and ignition as well as adjusting the timing, dwell and fuel mixture to specifications.

How often should you get a tune up?

The time for when a tune up is due will depend on your vehicle. With older vehicle models with non-electronic ignition it’s recommended that a tune up be done every 10,000-12,000 miles or annually depending on which scenario occurs first. With newer cars with fuel injection systems and electrical ignitions they can go from 25,000 miles to even as high as 100,000 without needing a tune up. Make sure you know where your car lies in that range for a timely schedule.

Can I still drive my car if it needs a tune up?

Your car may start to exhibit certain behaviors when a tune up is needed so it’s up to you to risk driving it. Consult your car’s owners manual to see how to deal with issues when they come about. 

Will a tune up help acceleration?

If your car is exhibiting a behavior known as “knocks” as it accelerates or climbs hills it could be there is either a fuel efficiency problem or a bad mixture of gasoline. In any case, getting a tune up can fix the problem.

What happens if you don’t get a tune up?

If a tune up isn’t done as recommended in intervals determined by your car’s manufacturer than it can put stress on areas of your ignition system. In some cases it can damage your catalytic converter of even have your experience longer and harder starts.

What are the benefits of a tune up?

A tune up is beneficial in that it will keep you car in top-notch condition consistently and will ensure that it reaches or even increases the expected life span of parts as well as the engine. It will prevent problems that vehicles exhibit from negligence which can prevent costly repairs. It will also assist in improving the power of acceleration, the fuel economy, battery life and other major components of your vehicle.

Do modern cars need a tune up?

Modern cars typically won’t have the mechanical parts that would require a tune up as seen with carburateurs being replaced with direct fuel injection or ignition distributors being replace by coil-on-plug ignitions systems. There may be other parts that can benefit from maintenance so make sure to contact your local vehicle service company or your car manufacturer for more information.

Is a tune up worth it?

A tune up is worth it for when your car starts to exhibit poor behaviors and symptoms or for when it’s time that your spark plugs require replacement based on it’s own maintenance schedule.

Schedule Your Next Tune Up Today

Your car will undergo many changes through time yet will perform the best after a car tune up has been completed. In order to have parts in good working condition for a longer period of time make sure to follow through with your manufacturer’s recommended intervals of scheduling a car tune up. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the behavior of your car call your local auto shop for more information.

If you’re interested in a tune up in Venice, FL call 941-493-6511 with Rolling Auto Service! 

What does a bad front axle sound like?

A bad axle will have a rumbling sound and/or a vibration as you speed up. Or while turning a corner, if you hear loud banging or clicking while shifting gears could indicate your car needs a front axle replacement.

If these indications are ignored, and the axle breaks where it connects to the universal joint, you won’t be going any further. No matter how much gas you give the engine, the axle will not let the car move. After an axle replacement, the car will ready to go again. 

Can a bad axle cause transmission problems? 

Yes, once your car’s axle has indicated that it is going out, and you neglect to get a front axle replacement, the seals on the transmission could get damaged and begin to leak. When you can move the differential up and down inside the transmission, the transmission will need replacing and a front axle replacement too. This is one of those times that the maintenance and upkeep by the car’s owner is essential in saving you frustration, money, and time. 

How long does it take to replace an axle?

If all the tools are available and there aren’t any issues other than thefront axle replacement being done, like having trouble with any difficulty to remove axle end caps or axle nut replacement. The typical car can take approximately two hours. Some cars may have more complex issues going other than the axle replacement, which can take longer for the job to be completed.

Unfortunately, those things do happen, and it is important to be aware of when it does. With a bad front axle, you should have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.  Because if you keep driving with a weakened axle, one dip or pothole could be the end of the road for you and your car.

One way to stay on top of things like the front axle is to have the technician check it out when you get new tires or a tire rotation.  They have your car on the lift and will have easy access to see things like the axle, axle caps, and other components.  Most tire stores will offer you this information without you asking. When you need axle repair in Venice, FL, call Rolling Auto Service at 941-493-6511 today.

What are the symptoms of a bad clutch?

A car clutch is a hard-working part of your car. You press the clutch pedal in, and it transfers energy to disengage the transmission so that you can shift gears. Then you let the clutch pedal up, and the power then transfers to the engine and your car goes. Over time, it wears out and goes bad. How can you tell it is time to replace your car clutch? 

• The Engine Is Moving but The Car Isn’t: This is called “clutch slippage” which happens when the clutch can’t generate friction make the flywheel turn.
• Car is Noisy Until You Press the Clutch Pedal Down: This is usually a worn-out bearing in the input shaft. 
• Pressing the Car Clutch It Chirps or Squeals: This is typically a pilot bearing, release bearing, or throw-out bearing that has worn out or needs lubricating. 
• Loud Grinding Noise: This is the car clutch dragging and could be the pressure plate, release mechanism, or throw-out bearing. 
• Car Won’t Go In Gear: If the car clutch pedal isn’t feeling right when you push it in or doesn’t seem to “catch”, it isn’t connecting to the transmission. 
• Noisy Car Clutch Pedal: A clutch pedal that is noisy when pressed and quiets when you let it back up usually indicates the clutch needs replacing.
• Acceleration is Noisy: This happens if the car clutch can’t get good engagement with the flywheel.

Can you drive without a clutch?

You can, but you risk damaging the car clutch and other components beyond repair. The car clutch connects and disconnects the engine and transmission each time you shift gears.  If the clutch fails, that connection doesn’t happen, and you cannot shift gears in the normal fashion. You can continue driving your vehicle through until you bring the car to a stop and this should only be an emergency to get your car to a safe place. 

Can a clutch fail suddenly?

Fortunately, car clutch failure will begin showing issues slowly, giving you a fair amount of time to have your car clutch checked and repaired before it goes completely out. Therefore, you should have knowledge of clutch issues so you can be aware of when it needs servicing. 

The car clutch discs get thinner as they wear from the friction, the springs will get weak, and all of this will allow the clutch to slip. However, a car clutch that suddenly fails is usually from something contaminating the friction area of the clutch, like an oil leak. 

How much time does it take to replace a clutch?

There are several factors that can affect the time to replace a car clutch. In the perfect mechanical world, four hours would be sufficient time, but it can take as long as 8 to 10 hours, with the average time being around 5 or 6 hours. Factors that determine the time to replace a car clutch are: 

1. Transmission: Manual transmissions car clutch will have more parts but are less complex and less expensive. 
2. FWD or RWD: Front Wheel Drive (FWD) cars and trucks are more menacing compared to Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) cars and trucks.
3. Kit or Components: A clutch kit will have every clutch component in it, making it easier, faster, and often less expensive to replace.  
4. Mileage: A car clutch with less than 50,000 miles will be in a better condition and easier to work on than a car clutch with 100,000 miles.
5. Tools: An experienced mechanic in a shop will have every tool known and will repair or replace a car clutch without having to be crafty.  However, a shade-tree-mechanic can make do with what they have and rebuild an entire engine with two screwdrivers, some sockets, and a pair of pliers. 
6. Experience: If you are the DIY kind of person, awesome, go for it and give yourself plenty of time. However, the experience of a mechanic will give you a guarantee and warranty, and peace of mind.
7. Specialty Vehicles: Specialty vehicles will often have specialized car clutch and require components a more basic car clutch does, like dual-clutch system extra gears or valves.

How many miles does a clutch last?

It can be a difficult question to answer this question because it depends on the driving style of the main driver. Most car clutches will last approximately up to 60,000 miles while others need a new car clutch at 30,000 miles. Then there are the rare car clutches that last 100,000 or more. 

How Long Does it Take to Replace an Alternator?

If the mechanic is experienced or at an intermediate skill level, it is entirely possible that replacing the alternator will take less than an hour. It is also important to consider is whether or not there are any other extenuating problems with the engine. It is a good idea to have a thorough check-up with your auto mechanic when your car when it is having problems. 

Can You Replace Your Own Alternator?

If you are a trained mechanic or have an interest in cars, it is likely that you are capable of replacing your own alternator. Having a professional mechanic replace your alternator can cost upwards of several hundred dollars, which is why it’s important for you to consider doing it on your own if you are low on funds, and high on expertise. The first thing that you should do is disconnect your battery. Next, disconnect the wires that are connected to your alternator. The third step in this process is removing the belt from the pulley. This is the most difficult step in the process. You will need to turn the bolt/rod-end with a wrench or socket until it releases enough tension to make removing the belt possible. 

Removing the bolts will be the next step for you. With the alternator out of the engine, you will need to examine the replacement alternator. Remembering the steps that you took to take the old alternator out, please retrace your steps.

What Causes an Alternator to Fail?

There are many things that can cause an alternator to fail. Please review the following list to learn more.

• The alternator has gone bad. Alternators last only between five and seven years. At some point in your car’s lifespan, you may have to replace your alternator because it has failed.
• Problems with the computer. As mechanics can verify, new vehicles are built with sophisticated computer systems. If there is a glitch in the computer system, you can probably expect some problems to manifest in your alternator.
• Wiring. If the wires connected to your alternator get damaged or worn out, your alternator could fail.
• A bad fuse. After a power surge, you could have a blown fuse. In such cases, you can expect an alternator failure because your battery isn’t charging.
• A broken pulley or belt. While pulleys last for a long time before they finally fail, belts are flimsier. Eventually, they will crack and break. The same is true of your serpentine belt.

Do You Have to Replace Battery When Replacing Alternator

There are several different possibilities tied in with a broken alternator. If the alternator failed, killing the battery, you will need to replace the battery. Replace the battery, and then you can test the alternator. If after testing the alternator, it doesn’t hold voltage, then you will need to replace the alternator along with the battery. Alternatively, the battery could have failed, killing the alternator. This rarely happens, but can result because of a dead short in one of the cells of the battery. In such cases, the battery case will be cracked and look cockeyed. There are many important systems in a home and a car that require maintenance. In both homes and cars, routine air conditioner maintenance is necessary. Here is an example of a reputable HVAC company that administers air conditioner maintenance in Ellenton, FL.

How Much Alternator Replacement Cost

According to national estimates, the average cost for an alternator replacement is anywhere between $579 and $759. 

Can’t Remove Alternator Belt

Removing the alternator belt is the most difficult part of replacing the alternator. You can remove the alternator belt by placing a wrench behind the bracket to hold the nut. You can then loosen the bolt on the front of the bracket with a second wrench. You will need to turn the wrench counterclockwise. You will do this until it is loose, and then you can remove the wrenches and move the alternator toward the engine.

Alternator Replacement for Generator

Alternators are cheaper and easier to find than their equivalent, generators. If you would like to convert your generator to an alternator, your car will need to change from positive to negative ground. This is because alternators don’t work on a positive ground state.

You need an alternator replacement in Venice, FL, from an auto repair company that consistently delivers proven results. Call Rolling Auto Service at 941-493-6511 to speak with our staff about making an appointment today!

Then examine and inspect the engine, confirming what part of the engine is having issues, make the repairs and then test it. The process of an engine overhaul includes these basics internal parts replacing/repacking bearings, installing new piston rings and oil seals, and honing. 

How do you know if you need an engine overhaul?

An engine overhaul isn’t as uncommon as you may think, but it’s necessary to keep a car running the best it can. Some common signs that a car engine overhaul is needed are: 

• A Knocking Sound: You may hear a low-level knocking coming from the engine and as you rev the motor, it gets louder. This annoying sound may sound like there is a little person inside your engine with a hammer trying to get out. This is more than annoying. It could indicate severe problems and an engine overhaul is necessary.
• Smoking Excessively: The tailpipe is what comes out from under your car at the rear. For some cars, it may be coming out the side by the back tire. So, it’s not unusual that you wouldn’t notice if there is an excessive amount of smoke coming out. White smoke is typically the heat from the engine mixing with cooler outside air. If the smoke is dark and thick, this could indicate your car needs an engine overhaul.
• Burns or Uses Oil Quickly: Having your oil changed regularly is basic owner maintenance responsibility, just as checking it periodically. If your car seems to need oil added to the engine too frequently, for example, every 1,000 miles your car shouldn’t need more than 1 quart of oil. If your car is using more than this, it is an indication that the engine is wearing out and you should consider an engine overhaul.
• Loses Compression: A car engine operates under compression, and if the compression is lost, it isn’t working properly and can cause the car to misfire. The only way to correct this is an engine overhaul.
• Excessive Fuel Use: Gasoline is expensive and keeping your car running properly is the best way to save gasoline. So, when the engine isn’t running correctly, it uses more gas. If you see to be putting gasoline more often, your engine may be wearing out and an engine overhaul can fix that.
• Sludge In Oil: When you have the oil changed in your car, if the technician advises you there is sludge in the oil pan, they may recommend running a cleaner through it the replace the oil. After driving it a certain amount of mileage, if the sludge is back, this is usually a tell-tale sign that your car needs an engine overhaul.

How much does it cost to overhaul an engine?

This is a popular question and for good reason. However, there are many factors to be taken into consideration when doing an engine overhaul. Therefore, the cost is never exact and can vary from a car to car, city to city. An average is $2,500 and up.  

The next most popular question asked is “How long does an engine overhaul take?,” and the answer is the same. An engine overhaul can take a long weekend, several weeks, or possibly months. Sometimes, the parts must be special ordered, and it depends on how complicated the parts are to install.

Do rebuilt engines last long?

When an engine overhaul is done correctly to last 10s of 1000s miles, some even 1000s of 1000s miles. It also depends on how it is driven and if the owner has kept the maintenance up on the car, like regular oil changes.