A sudden, loud knocking noise from your car’s engine can be a driver’s worst nightmare. It’s a sign that something is seriously wrong, and ignoring it can lead to further damage and costly repairs.
So, if you ever find yourself in this alarming situation, here are four essential steps to take when your car engine knocks.
1. Pull Over Immediately
The moment you hear your car’s engine knocking, don’t wait for the problem to magically disappear. The knocking sound often indicates a serious issue, such as a rod bearing or piston damage, which can quickly lead to catastrophic engine failure. Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. This will not only prevent further damage to your engine but also ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.
2. Turn Off the Engine
Once you’ve safely pulled over, turn off the engine immediately. Continuing to drive with a knocking engine can cause severe damage, making repairs more expensive. The engine knocking may be a result of insufficient lubrication, overheating, or other factors, so it’s crucial to stop the engine to prevent any additional harm. Let the vehicle sit for a while to allow it to cool down.
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3. Check Oil Levels
Low or dirty engine oil is a common cause of engine knocking. While your car’s engine is still cooling down, check the oil level and its condition. Ideally, the oil should be at the recommended level and have a clean appearance. If the oil is low or looks dirty, it may be contributing to the knocking sound. In this case, topping up the oil with the appropriate type and grade can potentially resolve the issue. However, if the oil level is fine but the engine is still knocking, it’s a sign of a more serious problem.
4. Call for Assistance
At this point, it’s crucial to call for professional assistance. An experienced mechanic can diagnose the exact issue causing the engine knocking and recommend the best course of action. They might advise you to have your vehicle towed to a repair shop for a thorough inspection. Attempting to diagnose or repair the problem yourself can be risky and may worsen the situation, resulting in more extensive and costly repairs.
When your car’s engine starts knocking, it’s not a situation to take lightly. Follow these four emergency steps: pull over, turn off the engine, check the oil levels, and call for professional assistance.
