Engine Problems Archives

Diagnostic hub

Engine Problems Guides

Use these engine-problem guides to work through misfires, stalling, rough idle, overheating, reduced power, oil-related symptoms, and warning lights. Each article explains the symptom pattern, the checks that make sense before parts are replaced, and the conditions that should stop you from driving the vehicle.

EPC Light Diagnosis: Step-by-Step Guide to Find the Cause

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 22, 2026 | Engine Problems

Your EPC light came on, and the car may feel weak, jerky, or slow to respond. Don’t replace the throttle body yet—read the fault codes first. This guide walks you through the diagnosis in order, from checking symptoms and scan data to testing the throttle,...

Engine Oil Pressure Symptoms: Warning Signs, Causes, and What to Do

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 13, 2026 | Engine Problems

The big three symptoms of low oil pressure are the oil pressure warning light, ticking or knocking noises from the engine, and a gauge reading that drops — especially at idle. The most common cause is simply low oil level, followed by wrong oil viscosity, a failing...

Engine Runs Lean Symptoms? What a Professional Inspection Actually Covers

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 10, 2026 | Engine Problems

An engine runs lean symptoms when there is too much air and not enough fuel in the combustion chamber. When this occurs, your vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects excess oxygen in the exhaust and compensates by dumping extra fuel, pushing fuel trims...

Car Running Rich: How to Diagnose and Fix It

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 7, 2026 | Engine Problems

If your car running rich, the engine is getting too much fuel for the amount of air it can use efficiently. You may notice black smoke, a strong fuel smell, poor gas mileage, rough running, fouled spark plugs, or a check-engine light. But do not start by replacing the...

Engine Loses Power DIY Testing: Safe Checks Before You Replace Parts

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 6, 2026 | Engine Problems

When an engine loses power, the most expensive mistake is often the first one: replacing a part before confirming what failed. Power loss can feel like a weak throttle, hesitation, bogging, surging, reduced acceleration, limp mode, or a complete stall. The cause may...

Engine Loses Power When Turning: Causes and What to Check

by Mark S. Taylor | Oct 5, 2026 | Engine Problems

what does “turning” mean? If your engine loses power when turning, do not start by replacing the power-steering pump. That may be the problem, but it is only one possibility. “Turning” can describe two different symptoms: The engine bogs, loses RPM, or stalls when you...

« Older Entries