Those frustrating engine knocks and pings aren’t just obnoxious. They’re also an indication that there’s something not quite right for your car’s engine. Here’s what 2000 Auto wants you to know about what’s causing engine knocks in your car and what you can do about it.
Spark Plug Problems
The spark plugs are what give your car’s engine the “boom” it needs to combust fuel and air. Without that spark, your engine doesn’t run. There can be a few things wrong with your spark plugs, ranging from incorrect timing of the spark all the way to failing plugs or plug wires. It can be tricky to figure out what exactly is going on and with which spark plug.
Air and Fuel Problems
The other side of that combustion equation, the air, and the fuel can be tricky, too. If your car’s engine isn’t getting enough air, that can mean that the air filter is clogged or that the sensors that let your car’s onboard computer know what’s happening with oxygen aren’t getting that information to the ECM. The problem could also be that there’s not enough or there’s too much fuel getting into the engine. Both can cause that mix to be off.
Failing Knock Sensor
Speaking of sensors, another type of sensor called the knock sensor detects when there are engine knocks and pings. Those are not great for the car’s engine, so that sensor lets the ECM know when it needs to make adjustments that correct the engine knocks. If the sensor isn’t functioning properly, that information is not getting to the ECM.
Using the Wrong Gas
Your car’s owner’s manual lists out what octane levels are right for your car’s engine. That isn’t just the manufacturer being bossy, either. The proper octane level is important because it helps your car’s engine to run properly. Using incorrect octane levels means that you get knocks and pings and eventually that leads to engine damage. You can prevent all of that simply by sticking with the right gas as recommended.
Hearing more unpleasant sounds in your car’s engine lately? Don’t keep guessing about what’s causing it. Give us a call at 2000 Auto in Melbourne, FL and we can diagnose the issue quickly and thoroughly. From there we can let you know exactly what’s going to correct the problem in your car and get you back on the road again as quickly as possible.