Look Out for These Six Signs of Major Engine Damage in Salem, OR

The BOXER® engine is what makes your Subaru a Subaru instead of an oversized (but still great-looking!) lawn ornament. Because of this, it's important to keep an eye out for major engine damage. If your engine has suffered major damage, or is in danger of doing so, it will generally present specific symptoms. Below are six of the major ones; if you've noticed anything like this from your Subaru, head to an authorized Subaru service center like Capitol Subaru.

6. The Check Engine Light Flashes

This one almost goes without saying, but it's still important to keep in mind. While a steady check engine light doesn't normally signal major damage, it's still a signal that something is wrong and should be looked at soon. But if the check engine light is blinking, it's an indication that there's a major issue with a component like the spark plugs, catalytic converter, or mass airflow sensor. If this light is flashing, stop driving as soon as it's safe to do so and call for a tow.

5. The Engine's Performance Decreases

Subaru vehicles are built with great response. If you step on the gas pedal and are met with uncharacteristically weak performance, it could be a sign of an engine issue (though, if you have a manual transmission, be sure it's not in too high a gear first). The engine might also stall more often.

4. The Engine Doesn't Sound Right

If your engine is making popping, stuttering, or knocking noises, or if it backfires, don't simply ignore it! This is a sign that the engine needs immediate attention.

3. The Cabin Smells Bad

It can be hard to locate a smell in your cabin. From a little mildew to forgotten food to smells coming in from outside, there are plenty of bad smells not caused by major engine damage. However, a gas or oil smell is something to be cautious about, especially if it's not coming from another vehicle. Not only could this indicate a trouble with the fuel or oil system, but it's hazardous to breathe emissions.

2. There's an Oil Leak

Now, before you get too worried: an oil leak isn't always a sign of major damage, and might well be caused by something as minor as a worn-down seal. That kind of leak is usually noticeable by a few drops under the vehicle after it's been parked. However, a major puddle of oil could be something as serious as a crack in the engine block. Whatever the cause, driving without enough oil can cause massive damage as the moving metal parts rub against each other without lubrication.

1. The Engine Overheats

An overheating engine is never a good sign. The cooling system keeps the engine at the right temperature; if it gets too hot, the engine block may warp, becoming unusable. If the engine temperature light comes on when you're driving, or the needle on the temperature gauge shoots up into the red, pull over as soon as it's safe to do so and call for a tow. With any luck, you'll have stopped the engine before it becomes irreparably damaged.