Your vehicle’s engine is the heart of its performance, and when it starts showing signs of distress, quick action can make the difference between a simple repair and a costly rebuild. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to severe damage and even complete engine failure. By paying attention to unusual sounds, performance changes, or dashboard alerts, you can catch problems before they escalate. At Murphy Family Auto Repair, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Mesa, AZ area. Here are five common signs of engine trouble that should be addressed by a mechanic as soon as possible. Check Engine Light Is On One of the clearest warnings of engine trouble is the check engine light illuminating on your dashboard. While it can signal a range of issues—from a loose gas cap to serious engine malfunction—it should never be ignored. The mechanic can use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact cause and help you resolve it before it becomes a bigger problem. Unusual Noises from Under the Hood Knocking, tapping, or grinding sounds coming from your engine are never normal. These noises often indicate worn-out components. A knocking sound in particular can be a sign of poor lubrication or misfiring, which can cause internal damage if left unchecked. Any unfamiliar noise from the engine bay warrants a professional inspection to prevent further harm. Decreased Power and Performance If you notice your vehicle struggling to accelerate, experiencing rough idling, or losing power while driving, it’s a sign of trouble. Common causes include clogged fuel injectors and ignition system problems. Even small changes in performance can indicate developing issues that will only worsen over time, so it’s best to have a mechanic evaluate the cause immediately. Discolored/Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust The color of your exhaust smoke can reveal a lot about your engine’s condition. Blue smoke suggests oil is burning, white smoke can indicate coolant leakage from a blown head gasket, and black smoke often points to an overly rich fuel mixture. Any of these conditions can lead to worsening engine issues if not corrected promptly. Fluid Leaks/ Burning Smells Puddles under your vehicle or the smell of burning oil or coolant are strong indications of a leak. Engine oil and coolant are vital for lubrication and temperature regulation, and low levels can quickly lead to overheating or internal wear. A mechanic can identify the source of the leak and repair it before it causes permanent damage. Engine Repair in Mesa, AZ For expert auto repair in Mesa, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Murphy Family Auto Repair at (480) 597-8097. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Mesa!

Few issues are as alarming to drivers as seeing the temperature gauge climb into the red or noticing steam rising from under the hood. An overheating car can quickly escalate from a minor inconvenience to a major repair bill if not addressed promptly. At Murphy Family Auto Repair, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Mesa, AZ area. Here are four of the most common culprits behind this issue. Radiator Problems The radiator plays a central role in releasing heat from the coolant. If it becomes clogged with debris, or if the radiator fan fails, airflow is restricted and heat cannot dissipate effectively. A leaking radiator can also reduce coolant levels, compounding the problem. Radiator issues often lead to rapid overheating. Faulty Thermostat The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant between the engine and radiator. When working properly, it opens and closes to maintain the ideal operating temperature. If it gets stuck in the closed position, coolant cannot circulate, causing the engine to heat up quickly. A malfunctioning thermostat is a relatively inexpensive part to replace but can create significant overheating risks if ignored. Low Coolant Levels Coolant is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s cooling system, circulating through the engine and radiator to absorb and release heat. If your coolant levels are too low, your engine won’t be able to regulate its temperature properly. Water Pump Failure The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine. When it fails, coolant movement slows or stops, leading to dangerous spikes in temperature. Signs of a failing water pump can include leaks, grinding noises, or whining sounds. Because the water pump is so essential, its failure often leads to overheating in short order. Cooling System Repair in Mesa, AZ For expert auto repair in Mesa, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Murphy Family Auto Repair at (480) 597-8097. At our nearby auto shop, we can thoroughly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Mesa!