If your car’s engine is making strange knocking sounds, come to Buellton Garage right away. The knocking noises could be a sign of serious damage that can harm your engine. We’ll explain the reasons why engines knock below. In some cases, the problem could be a simple fix such as changing the gasoline you put in your vehicle or replacing the spark plugs.
Fuel With a Low Octane Rating
Let’s start with the gasoline you put in your vehicle. It’s always important to check your owner’s manual so you know the octane rating that your automobile’s engine requires. If you put fuel with a lower octane rating than what is recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer, you will end up with a knocking engine. Multiple detonations in the cylinders are what are causing the knocking noise.
Spark Plugs That Are Misfiring
You may also have worn spark plugs that need to be replaced if the engine is knocking. If the spark plugs are misfiring, you will hear the multiple detonations in the cylinders, i.e., the knocking sounds. As we mentioned above, replacing the spark plugs can often stop the engine knock. In some cases, however, the spark plugs may be misfiring because the engine control module is malfunctioning.
A Malfunctioning Knock Sensor
Speaking of malfunctions, a malfunctioning knock sensor will also make your engine knock because it will not alert the engine control module of a problem in the combustion chamber. Normally, the module will make adjustments to prevent a knocking engine. If the knock sensor is unable to notify the module of a knocking problem, the engine will continue to knock.
A Fuel Mixture Filled With Air
One of the things that causes engine knock that the engine control module can repair is a lean fuel mixture. This is a fuel mixture that is filled with too much air and not enough gasoline. Things that can cause this type of fuel mixture include a faulty fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter.
Rod Bearings That Are Worn
We mentioned at the beginning of this blog post that a knocking engine could be a sign of engine damage. If the bearings that move the rods up and down are worn, they will cause the pistons to knock against the cylinder walls. This can cause serious damage to the cylinder block.
Buellton Garage in Buellton, CA, can resolve your engine knocking problems. Call us today to schedule a service appointment.
