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.
Signs You Require Engine Service or Replacement
Recognizing the early warning signs of engine trouble can save you from a complete breakdown and the need for a costly engine replacement in Oklahoma City. Your car often communicates when it is struggling, and paying attention to these signals allows you to address issues while they are still manageable repairs.
Watch for these common indicators of engine distress:
- Check Engine Light: A persistent light on your dashboard indicates a fault code that needs immediate diagnosis.
- Knocking or Tapping Noises: unusual sounds usually point to low oil pressure or worn internal bearings.
- Excessive Exhaust Smoke: Blue, white, or black smoke indicates burning oil, coolant leaks, or fuel system issues.
- Power Loss: Struggling to accelerate or climb hills suggests compression or fuel delivery problems.
- Rough Idle: If your car shakes or sputters at stoplights, it may have spark plug or sensor failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I Schedule a Timing Belt Replacement?
Most manufacturers recommend a timing belt replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, though this varies by vehicle make and model. It is critical to adhere to this schedule because a broken timing belt can cause severe internal engine damage, leading to expensive repairs or the need for a full engine replacement. We can check your owner's manual and the condition of your belt during your visit to determine the right time for service.
If you are unsure about the history of your vehicle, especially if you bought it used, we recommend an inspection immediately. Our technicians can look for signs of wear, such as cracking or glazing. Replacing this component proactively is much more affordable than repairing the damage caused by a snap while driving on the highway.
How Do I Know If I Need an Engine Replacement or Just Repairs?
Determining whether to repair or replace an engine depends on the extent of the damage and the value of the vehicle. We perform a thorough cost-benefit analysis for you, comparing the price of fixing the current issue against installing a remanufactured engine. Generally, if the engine block is cracked or internal damage is extensive, engine replacement might be the more reliable and cost-effective long-term solution.
However, many issues that seem major, like blown head gaskets or timing chain failures, can often be repaired successfully. Our goal is to provide you with honest options, not just the most expensive one. We will explain the warranty coverage on a replacement versus a repair so you can make the financial decision that makes the most sense for your budget and plans for the car.
What Does the Check Engine Light Actually Mean?
The check engine light is a general warning system that communicates with your car’s onboard computer. It can trigger for hundreds of reasons, ranging from a loose gas cap to a failing catalytic converter or a misfiring cylinder. Because the light itself doesn't tell you the specific problem, professional engine diagnostics are necessary to read the error codes and interpret the data accurately.
Ignoring this light can lead to reduced fuel economy and further damage to emission components. We urge you to bring your vehicle in as soon as the light appears, even if the car seems to be driving normally. Catching the issue early often results in a simpler, less expensive repair than waiting until the car exhibits physical symptoms of failure.
Why Is My Engine Overheating in Stop-and-Go Traffic?
Overheating in traffic is often caused by a malfunction in the cooling system, such as a failing cooling fan, a stuck thermostat, or low coolant levels. In Oklahoma City's heat, your cooling system works overtime, and if the fan isn't pulling air through the radiator when the car is stopped, temperatures will spike. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention to avoid warping cylinder heads.
It could also be due to a blocked radiator or a failing water pump. Our technicians will pressure test the system to find leaks and verify that the fans cycle on and off correctly. Restoring the efficiency of your cooling system is vital to protecting your engine from permanent heat-related damage during your daily commute.
How Long Does a Standard Engine Repair Take?
The duration of your service depends entirely on the complexity of the repair and parts availability. Routine maintenance like spark plug replacement or fluid flushes can often be completed within the same day. However, more intensive work, like car engine repair in Oklahoma City, involving internal components or timing chains, may take several days to ensure precision.
We understand that being without your car is inconvenient. We provide a time estimate upfront and keep you updated throughout the process if there are any changes. Our complimentary shuttle service helps you maintain your routine while we work, and we focus on working efficiently without compromising the quality and safety of the repair.
Restore Your Vehicle's Performance
Don't let engine troubles leave you stranded or compromise your safety. At Christian Brothers Automotive Warwick, we provide the expert car repair services and honest communication you need to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
From minor adjustments to major overhauls, our team is dedicated to delivering quality results that withstand the demands of the road.
Secure your vehicle's longevity and performance by scheduling your appointment online or calling (405) 554-4298.
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.