Engine Failing? 3 Revealing Symptoms of Failing Cylinder Heads in Your Car
Cylinder heads are at the core of your car engine's functionality because of fuel combustion taking place within the system for powering your vehicle. Along wit the head gasket, cylinder heads seal the car's cylinder to prevent the leakage of oil or coolant into it, while limiting the heat generated from combustion. Failing cylinder heads will cause catastrophic engine failure over time, so look out for these revealing symptoms of failing cylinder heads in your car.
You Notice a Rubbery Odour Inside Your Car Cabin
If you notice a strong, rubber scent inside your car's cabin, then it could be because of cracked or damaged cylinder heads inside the engine. This smell is typically the result of coolant leaking into the cylinder, which means that the cylinder heads are no longer functioning, as they should. Cylinder heads crack or get damaged because of mixed metals used in many car engines today. For instance, many engines have iron engine blocks but aluminium cylinder heads. These metals expand differently, which may lead to cracks and coolant leakages. You will need to take your car to a mechanic immediately to get the cylinder heads replaced.
You Notice Grey Smoke Being Emitted from the Exhaust Pipe
Blackish or grey smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe indicates that there may be a problem with your car's cylinder or cylinder heads. This smoke colour indicates that your cylinder is overheating. This may lead of to cylinder head damage and warping because of the stress put on it through the excess heat. To prevent overheating, you must ensure that your radiator coolant is filled properly without any leaks. You'll also need to ensure there are no leaking hoses and stretched belts. If you notice engine overheating, allow it to cool completely before putting water to prevent any premature damage to the cylinder and cylinder heads.
You Notice Fluid Leaks Within the Cylinder System
If you notice puddles of fluid under the engine, then it could be because of coolant leaking throughout the system. Leaking coolant will dilute your engine oil and may damage your engine bearings. This can cause irreversible damage to your entire cylinder system, including your cylinder heads. You will need to get your coolant levels checked and the leak fixed, in addition to checking for cracks in your cylinder heads before driving the car safely once again.
If you notice any of these revealing symptoms of failing cylinder heads in your car, be sure to head to a qualified mechanic immediately to get the problem fixed for better road safety while driving.