Engine Check

What Is the Purpose of an Engine Check?

Listening to the engine is crucial. I check for unusual sounds like knocking, ticking, or grinding, which can indicate wear or damage. I inspect the oil level and condition, looking for dirt, metal particles, or water contamination. I also ask about the last maintenance to understand if the engine has been properly cared for. This evaluation helps predict reliability and identify potential costly repairs.

My Experience

On many occasions, I’ve heard slight valve ticking that turned out to be normal, but once it was a sign of a faulty lifter requiring expensive repair. I’ve seen engines with black, burnt oil suggesting overdue oil changes and neglect. Another memorable find was a car leaking oil from a failing valve cover gasket that the seller ignored. Catching these signs early means avoiding surprises later.