It’s only been a couple of years since the last tune up on your vehicle. Everything seems to be OK, so let’s not worry about it, right? Wrong!

On most vehicles on the road today, malfunctions can be covered up by computer whose function is to keep the engine running as smoothly as possible. When the computer can no longer compensate for any mechanical discrepancies, it might fail. Now your vehicle may be disabled. Periodic maintenance and diagnostic check ups may avoid this situation all together.

On today’s vehicles, engine trouble can be very subtle. It is not easy to tell if you need a tune-up because computerized controls may cover up symptoms. Preventative care done regularly can keep your vehicle running smoothly for years. If you notice any changes in the way your vehicle is running, report it to your technician for diagnosis and corrective measures.

Hard Starting — This can be one of the most common forms of car trouble and it is usually due to unperformed maintenance.

If the starter cranks the engine, the electrical system probably is ok. The problem could be a starting sensor (on fuel injected models) or the choke mechanism (on engines with carburetors). Starting failure can be traced to an electronic component or a computer controlling the ignition system.

Knocking — This noise is usually heard when the engine is under load such as when accelerating or climbing a hill. While it often may be caused by a tankful of bad gas, ignition knock usually is a sign your engine needs attention. It also can be caused by build-up of carbon inside the engine. Late model cars are equipped with a knock sensor which “hears” the sound and makes corrective adjustments. However, it can not compensate for a severe malfunction, a condition which can not only affect engine performance but may damage the engine as well.

Power Loss — Have you changed your fuel filter lately? A dirty filter is a common cause of power loss. Most of the causes for this condition can be located with a diagnostic procedure.

Poor Gas Mileage — By keeping a log of your gas mileage (miles driven divided by gallons used) you should be able to tell if your engine is losing efficiency. Increased gas consumption may be accompanied by other systems such as underinflated tires, engine running too cold, transmission malfunction, dragging brakes or misaligned wheels.

Stalling — This condition may be caused by incorrect idle speed adjustments, a malfunctioning sensor or switch, dirty fuel system parts, worn spark plugs, or other engine deficiencies. Does your vehicle stall when hot? cold? or with the air conditioning on? To make the diagnosis easier, make note of when it happens so you can advise your technician.

Dieseling — this is also known as “after-run”. The engine will keep chugging and coughing for several seconds after the ignition is turned off. Causes of this can range from inferior gas to excessive idle speed. Carbon is the combustion chamber may also cause dieseling.

Exhaust Odor — The smell of rotten eggs comes from your catalytic converter, which is part of the vehicles emissions control system. The odor can be due to an engine problem or a sign that the catalytic converter may be malfunctioning.

Rough Running — A malfunction in either the fuel or ignition system can cause an engine to run rough. An internal condition such as a bad valve or piston can cause the car to run rough. Does this happen when idling? When accelerating? At all speeds? Have your technician perform diagnostic and tune up services as needed to locate the problem early.

These simple tips may help to keep you vehicle on the road for many more years to come.

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