Engine failure could leave you suddenly stranded on the side of the road and facing expensive rebuild costs. You might even need to shop for a new car. To avoid that, keep your eyes and ears open for signs you need engine repair before it seizes up and leaves you stuck. You Save Auto Repair in Covington, KY, is known for their inexpensive car parts and exceptional mechanical and auto body repair. Below, they offer some important signs that your engine needs attention.

3 Important Signs You Need Engine Repair

1. Knocking Noises

Engine knocking is a key sign of worn bearings. The bearings are the components on which the pistons' crankshaft rotates, and they can wear down with age or after the car has been operated with low oil levels. You may also notice a grinding noise from under the hood while the car is in motion.

2. Heavy Exhaust Smoke

If the car is emitting a great deal of exhaust smoke, the engine is likely burning something it shouldn't be. If the smoke is black, it's burning too much fuel, a problem often caused by a clogged air filter or a leaking fuel injector. Blue smoke means oil has leaked into the combustion chamber, and white smoke indicates a coolant leak and the potential for overheating.

3. Metal Flakes in Engine Oil

If an oil change reveals metal flakes in the discarded oil, it's a sign of friction damage. Moving engine components should never actually touch, and instead should be lubricated by clean, viscous oil. Flakes of metal mean parts are rubbing together. This can lead to overheating and serious engine damage if not dealt with immediately.

If you've noticed any of the symptoms discussed above, contact You Save Auto Repair in Covington, KY, for engine repair. They offer exceptional mechanical and auto body work at affordable rates, sometimes as much as 50% cheaper than their competitors. Visit their website to view directions and business hours, or call (859) 360-3465 to make an appointment.