Is a Rod Knock the End of Your Engine as You Know It?

When vehicle owners experience certain engine problems, they often assume their vehicle is at the end of its life. They believe the repairs will be too expensive to be worthwhile. They trade in or junk the car to be rid of a vehicle that can no longer provide reliable service. They might not even bother taking it to an auto repair shop in Minneapolis, MN before making a decision.

This is often a mistake. The truth is, there are many potential causes of engine knocking. Without proper inspection by a trained mechanic, it is impossible to know exactly what is going on with your vehicle. To help vehicle owners better understand this situation, your auto repair shop in Minneapolis, MN offers the following FAQ.

What is a rod knock?

A rod knock is a deep rapping noise that comes from the engine. It is caused by wear or damage. When a vehicle’s connecting rods inside the bearings have excessive clearance, movement is affected. When the piston changes direction, metal hits metal and produces a knocking noise. This “rod knock” increases with speed and load.

What causes a rod knock?

Rod knocks are typically caused by wear or damage to the bearings. However, engine knocking can also be caused by several mechanical problems. These include:

• Defective main crankshaft bearings
• Loose or broken timing belt tensioner
• Failing air conditioning compressor
• Broken or cracked flywheel or flex-plate
• Worn water pump bearing
• Worn alternator rotor bearings

What should I do if I hear a rod knock?

Because the noises caused by each of these problems can sound very similar, it’s important to have your vehicle checked by a trained technician. It is not wise to assume the noise is a rod knock. Your vehicle may have a lot of life left in it, and giving up on it due to an engine knock can be a costly mistake.

On the other hand, an engine knock should not be ignored. It is often an indication of a serious problem (or one that could become serious if ignored). If you hear engine knocking, have your vehicle checked right away by a trained mechanic.

Rather than either ignore the issue or assume your vehicle has reached the end of its life, consult with an auto repair shop in Minneapolis, MN. An experienced mechanic can use one or more methods to check your vehicle and determine the cause of the knock. Options include the use of a timing light and a low-voltage test light. Once the technician discovers the cause of the noise, he or she can then recommend the best course of action for your repairs or replacement.

Who Can I Trust for Expert Repairs?

If you hear unexplained noises emitting from your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact your local auto repair shop in Minneapolis, MN. The professional technicians at Quality Coaches, Inc. are fully equipped to handle all your engine repairs. Reach out to us today with any questions or to schedule your next expert service. We look forward to partnering with you to extend the life of your vehicle.

Categorised in: Auto Repair Shop

This post was written by Sharon Morgan