What to Expect With Engine Services
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Frequently driving your car with little fuel can harm your engine over time because the gasoline at the bottom of your tank is usually the dirtiest. When this part is used for fuel, you run a higher risk of dirt reaching your fuel line and engine.
Recognizing and Solving Common Engine Problems
Your vehicle often provides warning signs before a catastrophic failure occurs. Recognizing these symptoms early allows you to seek car engine service Mandeville experts recommend before you face a complete breakdown or expensive engine replacement.
Watch for these 5 common indicators of engine trouble:
- Check Engine Light: The most common signal that the computer detects a sensor or mechanical fault.
- Knocking or Ticking: Internal noises indicating low oil pressure or worn bearings.
- Excessive Exhaust Smoke: Blue, white, or black smoke signaling leaks or burning fluid.
- Loss of Power: Sluggish acceleration or difficulty merging onto the highway.
- Overheating: The Temperature gauge rises due to coolant leaks or head gasket failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Schedule a Timing Belt Replacement?
The timing belt synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshafts; if it snaps, it can cause catastrophic damage. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this interval varies based on your vehicle model. It is safer to perform a timing belt replacement service proactively rather than risk an engine failure.
In addition to mileage, age is a factor. Rubber degrades over time due to Mandeville's heat, so even low-mileage vehicles may need a new belt after 7 years. Our technicians inspect the belt for cracking or glazing during maintenance. If we notice deterioration, we will recommend immediate replacement to protect your engine.
How Do I Know if I Have a Blown Head Gasket?
A head gasket failure is a serious issue requiring immediate engine repair. The most common symptom is white exhaust smoke, indicating coolant is burning in the combustion chamber. You may also notice rapid overheating or a milky substance on your oil dipstick, which happens when coolant mixes with oil.
If you suspect a head gasket replacement service is needed, do not drive the vehicle. Driving with a blown gasket can warp the cylinder head or crack the engine block. Call us immediately for a tow and diagnostic assessment to prevent total engine seizure.
Is Engine Replacement Worth It?
Deciding between repair and replacement depends on the extent and your vehicle's overall value. Minor issues like leaks or sensor failures are resolved through car engine repair. However, if the engine has suffered significant internal damage, engine replacement might be more cost-effective.
Installing a remanufactured or low-mileage used engine can extend the life of your vehicle significantly. We provide a detailed cost comparison to help you make the best decision. We aim to offer the most logical and economical choice for your specific situation.
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light warns of issues ranging from a loose gas cap to a failing catalytic converter. It indicates the onboard computer has detected a malfunction affecting emissions or performance. While the car may seem to run fine, ignoring it can lead to reduced fuel economy and further damage.
We use advanced engine diagnostics to retrieve the specific error code and test the related components. We identify the root cause, whether it is a sensor, ignition coil, or vacuum leak, ensuring we fix the actual problem rather than just clearing the code.
How Does Humidity Affect My Engine?
Mandeville's high humidity can introduce moisture into the engine's intake and electrical systems if seals are worn. This can cause corrosion on battery terminals and sensors. Additionally, moisture accumulation in brake and power steering fluids can reduce their effectiveness over time.
We recommend regular engine maintenance to check seals and fluid conditions. Keeping your engine clean and your fluids fresh helps mitigate the effects of our humid environment, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable year-round.
Contact Christian Brothers Automotive Mandeville Today
At Christian Brothers Automotive Mandeville, we are dedicated to providing the high-quality engine services and customer care that turn a stressful situation into a positive experience. From our transparent digital inspections to our skilled repairs, we ensure your vehicle leaves our car shop in peak condition.
Don't wait for a small noise to turn into a major repair.
Contact us online or call (985) 465-3757 to schedule your expert diagnostic and repair service today.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
-
Q. "Why is my engine misfiring?"An issue with your ignition system, fuel system, or another mechanical error can cause your engine to misfire. If your engine is misfiring, it is best to have your vehicle looked at immediately. Click here to learn more about engine misfires and their causes.
-
Q. "Why is my engine overheating?"The 3 most common reasons your engine is overheating are you have a cooling system leak, a malfunctioning radiator, or a loose/broken belt.
-
Q. "What to do if your check engine light turns on?"We recommend heading to your local auto shop as soon as you are able. This is typically a sign that there is an abnormality within your engine.
-
Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
-
Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
-
Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
-
"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.