Most engines in modern cars should last at least 200,000 miles before serious issues emerge.
Considering that the majority of Americans drive 10,000 to 20,000 miles annually, you should be able to get 15 years or more out of your vehicle’s engine before it goes kaput.
Take Care of Your Engine
One thing to remember is that even the most reliable engine must be maintained to extend longevity. It’s not uncommon for some engines to last 400,000, 500,000, or even more miles.
A well-built engine that’s taken care of can stand the test of time and spare you the expense of prematurely overhauling or replacing it. Even so, even a bullet-proof engine will get tired and weary after hundreds of thousands of miles of dependable performance and service.
Here are 15 signs your car’s engine might be telling you it’s at the end of the road.
Check Engine Light is Blinking
It’s never a good idea to ignore lights on the dashboard — especially the check engine light. But a check engine light isn’t often something to be overly concerned about. Plug an OBD II scanner into the vehicle to discover the issue, and follow up with a mechanic.
The solution might be as simple as tightening the gas cap. But if the check engine light is blinking, you’ll want to get it diagnosed immediately. Your engine might be on its way out.
Fuel Economy Dropping Fast
Another sign your engine might be in trouble is if your car’s fuel economy suffers a severe hit. If your vehicle drinks more gas or diesel than it usually does, the problem could be the engine. You’ll want to look into it further since the root cause can be one of several things.
Is there a check engine light on the dashboard? If so, use an OBD II scanner to see what’s up. Otherwise, go to a mechanic who can uncover and fix the problem.
Engine Overheats Regularly
Few things are as troubling for a motorist as noticing their engine’s overheating. Having it happen once or twice is reason enough to visit a mechanic you trust. Don’t ignore it.
An overheating engine could kill your motor. A warped cylinder could trigger a coolant leak, and white smoke spewing from the exhaust is one telltale clue.
Rough Idle
Do you notice your engine idling erratically? It might happen at a stop light, in a mall parking lot, or on your driveway. Rough idling could point to a problem with the fuel delivery system. It’s worth going to a mechanic to get things checked out.
Way Too Much Noise Under the Hood
Yet another telltale sign your engine might be on its last proverbial legs is if you hear a lot of noise under the hood. But not all strange sounds mean the motor’s end is near. For instance, check things like the belts and hoses to ensure they’re in good shape. However, issues like backfiring, knocking, or popping sounds should be addressed as soon as possible.
Excessive Vibrations
Excessive vibration under the hood is another cause for concern. It’s not necessarily the equivalent of your engine signaling its imminent departure. But it’s something to get checked out. Worn spark plugs, fuel system issues, or even out-of-balance tires can give the sensation of vibrations. If you can’t diagnose and correct the problem, get a professional to have a look-see.
Engine Stalling
Stalling is another sign your engine could be in trouble. Before losing your mind over that prospect, consider other potential causes. The fuel system, vacuum leaks, sensors, blocked air filters, and other things can contribute to stalling issues.
What you don’t want to do is ignore it. Find out the root cause of the problem and address it.
Power Loss
A loss of power while driving can be frightening. If you lose power or can’t accelerate, pull over to the side of the road. A substantial power loss suggests something’s wrong with your engine’s combustion process. Call a tow truck rather than roll the dice.
Weird Odors
It’s hard to ignore strange odors coming from your vehicle. But the awful smell could be more than a mere inconvenience. Your engine might be trying to tell you something.
If the exhaust stroke of your engine is on its way out, it might let off an off-putting aroma from the tailpipe. It’s time to see a mechanic if that happens.
Engine Runs Even After Ignition is Switched Off
Another telltale sign your engine’s in trouble is if it continues to run even after switching off the ignition. No, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new engine since it could be a malfunctioning solenoid or another easy fix. But you’ll want to get the problem looked at.
Metal Shavings in the Engine Oil
The writing’s on the wall if you notice metal shavings in your engine oil. If metal shavings have been in the engine oil for too long, that’ll spell the imminent end of the engine.
Smoke is Coming from the Exhaust
Do you see dark blue smoke coming from the exhaust? Damaged engine components, such as worn and torn piston rings or damaged valve seals, can cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber. If this happens, it’s time for an engine overhaul or replacement.
Oil Patches Under the Vehicle
Another sign your car’s engine might be in trouble is if you notice oil patches on the ground beneath your car. Such a leak could be from the oil pan or a gasket. If this problem persists undetected or unaddressed for too long, your engine could be toast.
Low Oil Pressure
Ignoring a low oil pressure light on the dashboard is never a good idea. It might suggest the oil pump is on its way out or that the engine is worn and torn.
Slow or Hard Starts
Slow or hard starts suggest the engine needs to be refreshed or replaced. The good news is it could be something minor like a weak battery. Spending a couple hundred dollars is better than spending thousands on a rebuilt or new engine.
Don’t Ignore These Signs
If you experience any of these 15 signs, don’t ignore them. While these signs could result from issues other than a bad engine, don’t dilly-dally or bury your head in the sand. See a mechanic for help if you’re not a DIYer capable of diagnosing and fixing the problem.
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