Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith

Oct 28, 2022

Engine problems have a reputation as difficult and expensive to fix. This reputation isn’t deserved, as most problems with an engine can be quickly and inexpensively repaired if detected early. As your Chevy dealer, we have the expert knowledge to repair any problem for you. These are some of the different problems we can fix.

Damaged Alternator

The alternator is a part that many drivers don’t realize exists. It’s assumed that the battery supplies the electrical power for your car, but the battery only stores electricity. It, and all the electrical systems, depend on electricity generated by the alternator. The alternator works away quietly to generate power. All components eventually fail, and the alternator is no exception.

As your alternator gets older, it gradually generates less power. When an alternator can no longer supply all your car’s electrical requirements, your car’s computer will shift power between components according to their need. This can cause strange and random electrical glitches. Our technicians can replace your alternator with a new one.

Worn Ignition Coil

An ignition coil is connected to each spark plug. Combustion requires fuel and air to mix in a precise ratio. This mixture is then injected into the cylinders, compressed, and ignited by the spark plug. The series of controlled explosions that occur move your car. A spark plug, however, only provides 12 volts of power, which aren’t sufficient to ignite the compressed fuel-air mix.

The ignition coil boosts the spark plug’s power by supplying 30,000 volts. This voltage easily ignites the fuel-air mix. An ignition coil can wear out through use, and it can also get damaged. If this happens, the spark plugs it’s connected to won’t ignite its cylinder, and your engine will misfire. Misfiring can lead to serious engine damage. We can easily test and replace worn ignition coils to fix this problem.

Broken Radiator Fan

Your engine generates large amounts of heat as it works, and the heat needs to be removed. The liquid coolant absorbs the heat and takes it to the radiator. The hot coolant enters rows of thin aluminum tubes where it’s cooled by airflow through the radiator grille. The faster your car is moving, the more effectively this process works. This form of cooling only works when your car is in motion.

When your engine idles, a fan at the rear of the radiator will switch on and blows air over the tubes. This pushes the heat out through the grille. A damaged or broken fan can cause your engine to overheat anytime your not moving. Our technicians will repair or replace the fan for you.

If you have any problem with your engine, call us right away at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith.