If you engage in certain bad habits, then you can substantially increase the risk of your engine developing serious problems. Namely, skipping out on scheduled maintenance tasks can lead to major engine trouble suddenly arising. At Bay Brothers Automotive, we provide expert engine maintenance and repair in the greater Tampa, FL area. Our local mechanics will make sure that your engine is running beautifully. Here are four ways that drivers cause major engine problems.

Ignore the Check Engine Light

When the check engine light illuminates, it doesn’t automatically mean that total engine failure is near. However, it’s important to get to the shop ASAP so that any emerging issues can be accurately diagnosed and addressed before they escalate and become extremely expensive to repair.

Skip Oil Changes

When you fall behind on your oil change schedule, there’s a greater risk of insufficient lubrication causing your engine’s moving parts to suffer severe damage. Also, by staying current with oil changes and driving with the proper level of unpolluted oil, heat is more efficiently redistributed from the combustion chamber, which helps to keep the engine temperature within a safe range.

Ignore Symptoms of an Engine Problem

When you first notice evidence of engine trouble, you definitely shouldn't ignore it. Rather, you’ll want to get to the shop before the issue worsens. Common signs of an engine problem include power loss, knocking/tapping sounds, discolored/excessive exhaust smoke, rough idling, fluid leaks, and strange odors.

Don’t Keep Up with Factory-Scheduled Maintenance 

When you don’t keep up with 30/60/90k maintenance, then engine trouble is more likely to develop and your warranty may become invalid. During factory-scheduled maintenance, important tasks are completed such as fluid and filter changes, as well as a visual inspection.

Engine Repair in Tampa, FL

When you need auto repair in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Bay Brothers Automotive at (813) 491-7439. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly complete any of your vehicle’s repair or maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!