5 Warning Signs of a Cracked Engine Block

Properly functioning brakes are crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road. So if you notice a symptom of brake trouble, it’s important to address it ASAP. At Engine House Inc., we provide expert brake repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here’s a look at five signs that it’s time for brake repair. Squeaking or Squealing Noises If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or squealing sound when you apply the brakes, it's a clear warning sign that your brake pads are worn out. Most brake pads come with built-in wear indicators that produce a sound when they need replacement. Ignoring this sound can lead to more significant damage, as worn-out pads can damage the rotors, leading to more costly repairs. Grinding Noises A grinding noise when you apply the brakes is a more serious issue than squeaking. This sound typically indicates that the brake pads have worn down completely, allowing the metal backing plate to make contact with the rotor. Continuing to drive with grinding brakes can cause serious damage to your brake rotors, requiring a more expensive repair. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations or a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal when you apply the brakes, it could indicate warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can lead to uneven braking and decreased stopping power. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal can indicate air in the brake lines or a leak in the brake fluid. When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. If it sinks to the floor or feels unusually soft, it's crucial to have your braking system inspected. Delaying repairs can lead to brake failure, putting you and others at risk. With a brake fluid leak, you should get towed to the shop instead of driving there. Warning Lights on Your Dashboard Most modern vehicles come equipped with a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it can indicate a problem with the braking system such as low brake fluid or failing wheel speed sensors. If the warning light comes on, it’s essential to address it immediately and have your brakes checked by the mechanic. Brake Repair in Phoenix, AZ For auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Engine House Inc. at  602-265-2752  . Our local mechanics can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When your engine starts to falter, it can signal deeper problems that may eventually require an engine rebuild. An engine rebuild can restore the power, efficiency, and reliability of your vehicle when normal repairs won't cut it. At Engine Haus Inc., we provide expert engine rebuilding in the greater Phoenix area. Here are four signs that it might be time to consider an engine rebuild. Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust If your car is producing more exhaust smoke than usual, it could be an indication of serious internal engine problems. The color of the smoke can give you a clue about what's wrong: Blue smoke points to burning oil, which could mean worn-out piston rings or valve seals. White smoke suggests a coolant leak, possibly caused by a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block. Loud Knocking Noises A knocking sound coming from the engine is never a good sign. Engine knocking is commonly caused by issues with the combustion process. In many cases, it can indicate worn bearings. This could potentially lead to engine damage that may require a rebuild to fully resolve. Loss of Power A noticeable loss of engine power, especially during acceleration or while climbing hills, is often a sign of internal engine wear. As the miles add up, components like the pistons, rings, and valves can degrade, reducing the engine’s ability to compress air and fuel properly. If your car no longer delivers the power it once did, an engine rebuild may be the most effective way to restore its performance. High Oil Consumption If you're constantly needing to top off your oil between oil changes, it could indicate that your engine is burning oil internally. This is often caused by worn-out piston rings or valves. A rebuild is often the best way to address widespread internal wear and prevent further damage. Engine Rebuilding In Phoenix, AZ For engine rebuilds in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Engine House Inc. at  602-265-2752  . With our local auto machine shop , we can expertly complete tasks such as engine rebuilding. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

The transmission is one of the most important components of your vehicle, ensuring the right amount of power is transferred from the engine to the wheels. When it starts to malfunction, it can lead to escalating repair costs, so it’s always best to visit the shop at the first sign of trouble. At Engine House Inc., we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here are four common signs of transmission trouble that you shouldn’t ignore. Slipping Gears If your transmission is slipping between gears without any action on your part, this is a major red flag. You may feel the vehicle hesitate or jerk while accelerating or decelerating. In automatic transmissions, slipping can feel like a sudden loss of power, while manual transmissions may struggle to stay in gear. This can be caused by worn-out gears, low transmission fluid, or issues with the clutch. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, or clunking noises coming from your transmission are often signs of trouble. A grinding noise is often associated with manual transmissions and could indicate a problem with the clutch. On the other hand, whining sounds in automatic transmissions could signal fluid issues or worn internal parts. Regardless of the specific sound, any strange noise should be inspected immediately. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your transmission takes longer than usual to shift or shifts roughly between gears, this is a sign that something isn't right. Delayed shifting can cause your engine to rev higher than normal before shifting, while rough shifting may feel like a hard jerk. These symptoms could be related to low transmission fluid, worn-out gears, or issues with the transmission control module. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is critical for lubricating the moving parts inside your transmission and preventing overheating. If you notice a red, sweet-smelling fluid leaking from your vehicle, there's a good chance it’s transmission fluid. Even a small leak can lead to significant transmission damage, as low fluid levels can cause overheating and wear on internal components. Transmission Repair in Phoenix, AZ For auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Engine House Inc. at  602-265-2752  . Our local mechanics can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

A cracked engine block is one of the most severe issues your vehicle can face. The engine block is the core of your car's engine, housing many of the critical components necessary for operation. When it cracks, it can lead to significant problems, often requiring costly repairs or even a complete engine replacement. At Engine House Inc., our local mechanics can expertly address cracked engine blocks. We provide top-quality engine repair and replacement in the greater Phoenix area. Here’s a look at five signs that might indicate a cracked engine block. Overheating One of the most common signs of a cracked engine block is persistent overheating. The engine block is crucial for maintaining the engine's temperature, as it houses the coolant passages that help regulate heat. When there’s a crack, coolant can leak out, reducing the system's ability to cool the engine efficiently. If you notice your engine temperature gauge frequently running hot, a cracked engine block could be the culprit. Coolant Leaks Coolant leaks are another indication of a cracked engine block. If you find puddles of coolant under your vehicle or notice a drop in coolant levels without any apparent leaks from hoses or the radiator, the coolant might be escaping through a crack in the engine block. Engine Oil Contamination A cracked engine block can allow coolant to mix with engine oil, leading to contamination. This mixture often results in a milky or frothy appearance in the oil. Contaminated oil can damage your engine, reducing its lubrication efficiency and causing increased friction and wear on engine components. Poor Engine Performance A compromised engine block can lead to a drop in engine performance. You might notice a loss of power, rough idling, misfires, or difficulty starting the engine. These symptoms occur because the crack can affect the engine's compression and overall ability to operate smoothly. White Exhaust Smoke White smoke from the exhaust can indicate a cracked engine block, as coolant leaking into the combustion chamber will burn off and produce white smoke. This is a major red flag that should be brought to the mechanic’s attention ASAP. Engine Repair & Replacement in Phoenix, AZ When you need engine repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Engine House Inc. at  602-265-2752  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Maintaining your vehicle regularly is one of the best things you can do for it. Explore the benefits of preventative maintenance in the sections below. When you need an oil change or tune-up in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, visit the pros at Engine House . Cut Repair Expenses Regular preventative maintenance has significant long-term advantages. Serious issues can be avoided with routine oil changes and tire rotations. When you visit your local mechanic regularly, you can avoid future issues. You can lower the cost of needing frequent part replacements by doing basic maintenance. Avoid a Breakdown Never postpone regular upkeep. The crucial safety features of your car, such as the engine and brakes, are inspected during tune-ups. Keep your car in good functioning shape to avoid an accident or becoming stranded. Maximize Gas Mileage Regular oil changes can improve your car's fuel efficiency. Oil changes improve performance by lubricating the engine's components. Maintaining properly inflated tires can also help your car last longer. Replacing the air filter can even improve your car's acceleration. Prolong the Life of Your Car Vehicles that are well-maintained last longer. The average automobile can make it 12 years before major maintenance is required. To increase your vehicle’s lifespan, avoid driving aggressively, using the brakes forcefully, and bring your car in for routine maintenance on a regular basis. More thorough Inspections should typically be performed every 30, 60, and 90,000 miles. Preventive Maintenance in Phoenix Preventative maintenance is the key to ensuring your vehicle continues to perform great day after day. At Engine House, our team is happy to perform a conventional, semi-synthetic, or synthetic oil change in Phoenix for your vehicle. We can also conduct tune-up services, such as spark plug replacement, new air filter or fuel filter installation, and fuel injection cleaning. These tasks can restore performance and maximize fuel efficiency. Call us at 602-265-2752 to make an appointment or visit our shop.

Repairing or replacing an engine is one of the costliest expenses a car owner will ever face. If you believe your automobile is experiencing engine difficulties, bring it in as soon as you can for an inspection. The following is a list of the most common engine failure warning signs. When your vehicle is experiencing engine trouble in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, visit the pros at Engine House . Hearing Knocking Noises If you hear banging coming from under the hood, there might be a problem with the engine. These noises are frequently brought on by bearing wear. Your car's bearings begin to degrade after 75,000 miles or when they are improperly greased. Visit Engine House before your engine breaks down due to the effect bearings have on other engine parts. The Engine Lacks Power When the engine is underpowered, acceleration is more difficult, especially in older vehicles. Although there are a number of possible causes for this issue, the main offender is often a clogged part. Power might be decreased by blockages in the injectors, fuel filters, or air filters. When they become too dirty, these parts stop functioning. Low engine power can also be caused by malfunctioning sensors, clogged exhaust pipes, and defective spark plugs. Exhaust Smoke is Pouring Out Excessive exhaust smoke is generally an indication of something wrong, but the color of the smoke can oftentimes point to the source of the issue. Blue smoke typically denotes an oil leak or other oil problem, while white smoke frequently means there is a cooling system or injector fault. Black smoke indicates the engine is using too much fuel. Engine Repair in Phoenix When you suspect engine trouble, make a trip to Engine House. After identifying exactly what is wrong with your car or truck engine, we’ll present you with the diagnosis and a plan of action. Once approved, we will get to work right away to conduct engine repairs. There is no problem that we can’t ultimately solve, whether minor or major. Our team has years of experience with foreign engine repair and domestic engine repair. Once services are completed and you drive away from our Phoenix engine shop, we guarantee that your vehicle will run great. Contact us at 602-265-2752 for all of your engine repair, rebuilding, and replacement needs.

A vehicle’s suspension is critical for keeping its upright position and preventing rollover while in motion. Below is a list of the top signs that your vehicle needs suspension work. When you suspect suspension issues in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, bring your vehicle to the pros at Engine House . A Bumpy Ride Unless you're off-roading, you shouldn't notice minor road imperfections. Your car's struts and shock absorbers are responsible for keeping you comfortable while you drive over rough terrain. If driving over small bumps feels like going over a pothole, check your struts and shock absorbers. Depending on how frequently the car is driven, we advise replacing them every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Steering Struggles A suspension problem is the most common reason for a vehicle to swerve to one side while being driven. Even at a reasonable speed, turning will become more difficult. If the vehicle makes a screeching sound when turning, check the power steering fluid. While your car is parked, you might notice that one side sits lower than the other. Check the struts, springs, and shock absorbers if something feels odd, even though some cars are purposely built this way. Uneven Tread on Tires If one tire loses tread more quickly than the others due to uneven wear, your car could blow a tire. Uneven tread can be caused by a variety of things, such as broken suspension components and worn-out shocks or struts. When checking the suspension, make sure the control arms, bushings, tie rod ends, ball joints, and wheel bearings are all in good working condition. Suspension Repair in Phoenix When it is time for suspension repair, make Engine House Inc. your first call. Our mechanics are dedicated to providing superior auto repair in Phoenix. When your car leaves our Phoenix auto shop, we guarantee that it will run and drive better than before. Give us a call at 602-265-2752 to learn more about our team or to request a quote or an appointment for repairs, maintenance or performance services.

Since gas prices are still at an all-time high, it’s a good idea to get as many miles as you can out of your tank. Follow these simple tips to increase your car's fuel efficiency. Regularly maintaining your vehicle is one of the best ways to increase your mileage. When you need auto maintenance in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, bring your vehicle to the pros at Engine House . Be an Easy-going Driver Your fuel economy will deteriorate if you brake frequently and accelerate aggressively. This type of driving uses more fuel and puts a greater strain on the engine. To get the best gas mileage from your tank, keep your car's speed on the highway to no more than 55 mph. You can even save 7 to 14 percent of your tank by using cruise control. Make Sure Your Tires Are Properly Inflated When a car's tires are underinflated, the engine needs to work harder, which reduces the vehicle's gas mileage. Tires that are correctly inflated can result in a 0.6–3 percent boost in gas mileage. Make sure your tires are inflated to the PSI recommended by your car's owner's manual. Avoid Idling If you must keep the engine running for longer than three minutes, turn it off to conserve fuel. Modern cars don't need to warm up before you can accelerate. Even better, some newer models feature stop-start technology, which shuts off the engine while the vehicle is stopped and restarts it when the vehicle accelerates. You can use this option to reduce your car's fuel consumption by up to 10 percent while traveling through congested areas. Auto Maintenance in Phoenix Engine House Inc. provides comprehensive factory auto maintenance in Phoenix that will keep your car or truck running great mile after mile. You can count on us for all your vehicle’s needs, including 30/60/90K maintenance, automotive fluid flush services, car battery replacement, timing belt replacement, transmission maintenance, safety diagnostics, inspections and so much more. We strive to help our customers keep their vehicles running like new for as long as possible by using the highest quality parts and practices. Call us at 602-265-2752 for superior auto maintenance in Phoenix.

Nowadays, automatic transmissions are preferred over manual transmissions in many cars. Although driving a manual transmission is fun, more care must be taken to avoid damaging the clutch. By following these tips, you can ensure that your clutch lasts for years. Avoid operating your clutch for extended periods of time if it is damaged. You run the chance of badly damaging your clutch in addition to the starter motor, gearbox, and shifter. When you’re having clutch trouble in Phoenix or the surrounding areas, bring your vehicle to the pros at Engine House . Poor Shifting To maintain the clutch's health, avoid shifting too soon or before it is fully engaged. On a busy road, premature shifting causes the engine to work harder and increases the chance that the car could stall. If your clutch isn't engaged, a metallic grinding noise will alert you to the situation. Towing Beyond Your Capacity Before attaching any significant loads, check the owner's manual to confirm the vehicle's weight capacity. If you attempt to tow more weight than your car or truck is capable of, the clutch may burn out or degrade quickly. If your clutch is burning, you might notice a sweet or singed odor. Using the Clutch on a Hill When you're on a hill and want to prevent rollback, use your brake rather than the clutch. Use the parking brake to keep it from rolling back until you can safely move forward. Riding the Clutch Another habit to avoid while driving is riding the clutch, which involves keeping your foot on the pedal all the time. Be mindful while driving and give your clutch a chance to disengage. Clutch and Transmission Repair in Phoenix Are you having trouble getting through the gears? We offer automatic transmission repair and manual transmission repair in Phoenix, as well as clutch, CV axle, and drivetrain services. Common indications that it may be time for a trip to the transmission shop include grinding noises that occur while shifting, delayed shifts, an inability to get into one or more gears, or a transmission fluid leak. If you have concerns about your vehicle’s gearbox, give us a call at 602-265-2752 for superior repair services.