Honest Accurate Auto Service is a leading engine repair shop offering engine tune-ups and engine repair services at two convenient locations in Colorado Springs. Our team is experienced with domestic, Asian and European engines across all makes and models. We will diagnose and repair engine problems on cars, trucks, SUVs and light diesel vehicles and inform you of other potential problems that can impact the performance of your vehicle. 

Engine Repair Services 

• Engine tune-up
• Diesel engine repair service
• Engine overhaul and repair
• Engine rebuilding service
• Timing belt replacement
• Gasket replacement
• Engine block repair
• Piston/piston rings
• Cylinder heads
• Electrical repairs
• Engine rebuilds
• Valve repair

Engine Basics

The schematics of an engine will vary depending on the type of engine and type of vehicle it powers. The diagram below illustrates the basic parts of a car engine. You will likely recognize many of the systems that make up your engine and have a better understanding of how these parts work together to power your vehicle. 

Signs Your Engine Needs Service

The best way to monitor your engine performance  is to take your car in for regular maintenance and inspections. Regular oil changes are an easy — and necessary — service that gets your mechanic up close and personal with your engine every 3,000-5,000 miles. Between service appointments and car engine tune-ups, here are some indicators your engine needs professional service.

Check Engine Light

If the dreaded service engine soon light appears on the dash, it’s a good idea to take your vehicle in to run diagnostics and figure out the problem. One of the most common questions we get in the shop is, “The check engine light’s on, but the car runs fine. Do I really need to bring it in?” The answer is, absolutely. 

The check engine light is designed to alert you to problems you may not be able to detect so you can perform preventative maintenance or make necessary engine repairs. Don’t panic immediately. Sometimes your light can come on for something as simple as a loose fuel cap or a bad spark plug. But you won’t really know for sure until you’ve had the proper diagnostics, so why not give yourself that peace of mind?

Odd Noises

Your engine doesn’t have to sound like a purring kitten, but you likely have a general idea of what it should sound like. Here are some sounds that should have your turning on the motor and making a quick call to the mechanic for advice on next steps:

• Slamming or loud knocking
• Grinding
• Squealing metal
• Dead silence

You should bring your car in for an inspection if you have noticed:

• Uneven idling
• Revving
• Engine sounds strained
• Engine is performing louder than usual

Persistent Leaks

Have you ever seen a bumper sticker that says, “My car doesn’t leak, it marks its territory,” on the back of an older vehicle? While the joke is certainly funny, the consequences of ignoring those leaks are probably not. Oil leaks, for example, can cause your engine to seize and turn your car into a giant lawn ornament. Signs of engine damage from low oil can include knocking, burning smoke and refusal to start. 

Leaking antifreeze, in addition to being dangerous to pets and local wildlife, can cause serious damage to car engine parts if your vehicle overheats. Symptoms of engine damage from overheating include steam, burning, damaged gaskets and seals, and warning lights on the dash. 

Smoke, Increased Exhaust, Unusual Exhaust Output

Smoke of any kind should never emit from your engine. If you see smoke of any color coming from under the hood, you need to take your car in for service immediately. Deep black or cloudy white exhaust are also signs of internal engine damage or problems with one of the systems in your vehicle. 

Why Choose Honest Accurate Auto Service for Your Car Engine Repairs?

• Great customer service
• Timely communication
• Complimentary shuttle service
• 3 year/36,000 mile nationwide warranty