Engine Repair at Ames Ford in Ames, Iowa
Your car can’t run without its engine. Getting your engine serviced early and often can help prevent major, more expensive repairs.
Why Engine Repair is Important
You need your engine to get the wheels moving in your car. That’s what makes engine repair so essential; without it, you won’t be going many places at all. With regular engine maintenance and repair, you’ll be saving money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs.
When You Should Get Engine Repair
It is recommended that you have your engine serviced every six to twelve months. However, if you notice the check engine light, excessive exhaust smoke, noises, or leaks coming from the engine, it’s time to bring it in as soon as possible for engine repair.
The Engine Repair Process
There are a variety of different engine repairs that could need to be done to your vehicle’s engine. That’s why your service technician will do a thorough check, outlined below, to determine the source of the problem.
1. Examine the Air Intake and Exhaust Systems
Proper airflow is necessary for a functioning engine
2. Check Fuel System Components
Fuel delivery must be done correctly for the engine to function optimally
3. Inspect Ignition System
There’s more than just spark plugs involved here
4. Check Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses can wear down over time
5. Check the Oil
Oil changes are an important part of engine health
6. Check Spark Plugs
Spark plugs can be replaced with relative ease
7. Check Engine Compression
Improper compression can lead to misfires
8. Check the Air Filters
Engines like clean air with a lack of contaminants
Cost of Engine Repair
Most engine repairs are relatively reasonable. For example, a spark plug replacement can cost between $100-$500. Oil changes are even more reasonable. However, if your engine needs to be repaired or rebuilt, the cost is well into the thousands.
Questions to Ask Your Service Technician
Tell your service technician exactly what you noticed when you bring your car in for engine repair. This will help them decide how to fix it. If your service technician tells you that your engine needs to be repaired or rebuilt, ask about the cost. It may make sense to look for another car at this point.
Signs of a Quality Engine Repair
You’ll know you had a quality repair if the check engine light is off and stays off and if you can’t notice whatever you brought it in for anymore. If the problem hasn’t been solved, or if the check engine light is still on, there’s a possibility you had a shoddy engine repair.
Caring for Your Vehicle After Engine Repair
By accelerating quickly, you create excess wear on your engine. When you take it easy on the acceleration, you’re prolonging the lifespan of your engine. With routine maintenance, your engine’s lifespan will be lengthened as much as possible. If you notice the check engine light or any other engine problems, it’s time to bring your car into the shop.
Contact Our Service Department in Ames, Iowa
Ames Ford is here for all auto repairs, big and small. Our expert service technicians are here to tackle these problems and get you back on the road. When you’re ready, you can schedule an appointment online, by calling 515-233-1913, or by stopping by when we’re open.