Stranded because your car won’t start? Nothing’s worse than going about your day, only for your car engine to suddenly give up on you—especially when you’re already running late. If you’re reading this, fortunately, at least your phone’s still working! But before you panic or call for a tow, there are a few things you can check that might get you moving again. From misfiring engines to unexpected oil leaks, here’s how to troubleshoot the most common car engine problems and get back on the road quickly.

Common Car Engine Problems

So, your engine’s acting up, but what exactly is wrong? While it’s not always easy to figure out the cause, your car will often give you clues. From strange noises to warning lights, these signs can point you in the right direction. Here’s what’s likely causing the engine problem and how you can fix it fast:

1. Engine Misfire: The sputter that signals trouble

Misfires can be hard to detect. But if your engine feels rough, lacks power, vibrates at idle, or guzzles more fuel than usual, it’s a sign that something’s wrong. In some cases, misfires can also lead to higher emissions, making your car less efficient and more polluting. 

This happens when one or more cylinders fail to fire properly, often due to:

• Worn spark plugs – Weak or no spark means incomplete combustion.
• Clogged fuel injectors – Not enough fuel reaching the engine.
• Ignition issues – Faulty coils or timing problems.
• Low compression – Leaks or engine wear reducing power.

Easy Fix:

Spark plugs and ignition coils don’t last forever—swapping them out regularly will keep your engine firing on all cylinders. A professional fuel injector cleaning can also do wonders for smoother performance.

2. Engine Overheating: When your car runs a fever

Steam from the hood, a rising temperature gauge, or warning lights flashing on your dashboard—these are all signs your engine is overheating.

While engines naturally run hot, they rely on coolant, fans, and radiators to regulate their temperature. Most engine overheating happens due to cooling system failures. Common causes include:

• Low coolant levels or leaks
• Faulty radiator or thermostat
• Blocked coolant hoses
• Cooling fan failure
• Blown head gasket

Easy Fix:

• Shift into neutral and let the engine run briefly while checking the coolant level.
• In extreme heat, open the windows and turn the heater on full blast to draw heat away from the engine.
• Wait at least 30 minutes before opening the hood—removing the radiator cap too soon can cause steam burns.

Regularly checking your coolant levels and monitoring your radiator and thermostat can prevent your engine from turning into a sauna. If you spot leaks or blockages, get them checked before they turn into a costly repair job. 

3. Oil Leaks: Slippery When Ignored

Spotting dark puddles under your car? That’s your engine crying out for help. Oil leaks can lead to engine damage, reduced performance, and, worst of all, a breakdown at the worst possible moment. Since oil moves under high pressure, leaks can develop anywhere—making them dangerous if ignored.

Common Causes:

• Worn gaskets and seals
• Damaged oil pan or loose drain plug
• Faulty oil filter
• High crankcase pressure

Before you panic, check the fluid type—engine oil is dark and greasy, while transmission fluid is red, coolant is green or orange, and brake fluid is clear or yellowish.

Easy Fix:

• Tighten the oil filter and drain plug if they’re loose.
• Replace worn gaskets or seals to stop leaks at the source.
• Check oil levels regularly and top up when needed.

Routine maintenance can save you from costly repairs. If the oil leaks persist, get it checked before it leads to a bigger car engine problem.

4. Rough Idling: When your car feels jumpy

A car that shakes at a standstill is trying to tell you something. Rough idling happens when your engine isn’t running smoothly at rest, often causing vibrations, fluctuating RPMs (revolutions per minute), and even warning lights on your dashboard.

Common Causes:

• Dirty or faulty idle air control valve
• Clogged air filters
• Imbalanced air-fuel mixture
• Worn-out spark plugs
• Clogged fuel filter or dirty injectors

Easy Fix:

A quick air filter swap or a thorough cleaning of your idle air control valve can work wonders for smooth idling. Regular maintenance keeps these issues at bay and ensures your ride stays steady, not shaky.

Say Goodbye to Car Engine Problems with Simply Motoring

Engine problems can be a headache, but with expert technicians and top-notch service, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s a misfire, an oil leak, or an overheating engine, our team will diagnose and fix the issue before it gets worse. With quick booking, honest pricing, and thorough inspections, we keep your car running at its best.

Don’t wait for a breakdown—book your Car Service or MOT with Simply Motoring today and drive with confidence! 

FAQs

Why won’t my car engine start?

The most common reason for your car engine not starting is a dead or faulty battery. Even though your car runs on fuel, it needs electrical power to start. Other causes include a faulty starter motor, a bad ignition switch, or fuel system issues.

How do I know if my engine is in bad shape?

If your car is idling roughly, stalling frequently, losing power, or making unusual noises, it’s a sign your engine needs attention. A check engine light, excessive exhaust smoke, or poor fuel efficiency can also indicate deeper problems.

Can I still drive if my engine is misfiring?

While a single misfire might seem minor, driving with a misfiring engine can damage internal components and pose safety risks. It’s best to get it checked immediately to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Why is my car leaking oil?

Oil leaks often happen due to worn gaskets, cracked seals, or a damaged oil pan. Over time, rubber seals degrade, allowing oil to seep out. If you notice oil spots under your car or a burning oil smell, have it inspected before it leads to engine damage.