7 "diseases" that weaken car engines

1. Worn spark plug electrode

For the combustion process to take place perfectly, the spark plug must create a strong and timely spark to ensure that the combustion pressure is the greatest when the piston is at top dead center. Worn spark plugs, large gap between the 2 electrodes, ineffective combustion of the air-fuel mixture reduces power. The gap adjustment must be done according to the specific recommendations of each vehicle type.

2. Air filter is too dirty

This is the reason why there is not enough oxygen in the combustion chamber, making the engine weak. Especially for vehicles that often travel in places with too much dust. You need to clean the air filter every 3 to 6 months and should replace the air filter periodically according to the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Clogged fuel filter

This is considered the most common cause of engine weakness, not only that, it also causes the engine to stall in the middle of the road. However, when encountering this problem on the road, you can stop the car for a while and then restart it to continue driving. In addition, you should change the car's fuel filter periodically at a reputable car garage because it is very difficult to do at home.

4.Clog exhaust pipe

Catalytic converters help reduce the amount of toxic gases released into the environment. However, over time, they become a factor in the exhaust pipe. Exhaust gases accumulate in the pipe, and the engine uses more energy to push them out. High exhaust pressure also reduces the amount of air intake, leading to power loss.

5. Worn fuel pump or leaking pressure regulator

The ECU controls the amount of fuel according to the time the injector opens and closes. The fuel pressure in the system is maintained at a stable range of 2.0-5.8atm thanks to the continuously working fuel pump and regulator. Low pressure reduces the amount of fuel supplied to the combustion chamber.

Fuel pumps are difficult to break, have an average life of up to 6 years and are often replaced unjustly. When replacing the fuel filter, the injection pressure is still low, some garages often assume the pump is faulty and decide to replace it. In fact, many cases are due to a leaking or jammed pressure regulator, the fuel returning to the tank does not create pressure.

Injection pressure is guaranteed but the amount of fuel entering the combustion chamber may still be lower than required. The reason is that the mass air flow sensor (MAF) or absolute air pressure sensor (MAP) responds slowly, transmits incorrect signals, and the ECU controls the injector opening time to be short.

6. Low compression ratio

This problem often occurs in vehicles that have had their oil changed infrequently or have been used for a long time. During the expansion stroke, high-pressure gas leaks through the gap between the piston and the cylinder or between the valve and the base, eliminating the compression pressure on the piston.

In severe cases, oil can enter the combustion chamber and contaminate the spark plug. Engine oil also gets dirty faster. This is a serious problem that requires a major overhaul. To determine the exact problem, you can check by pumping compressed air into the combustion chamber through the spark plug port and measuring the pressure drop during the compression stroke (all valves of the air distribution system are closed).

7. Car with few oil changes and long-term use

For cars that have had their oil changed infrequently and have been used for a long time, the car will have a low compression ratio, causing the engine to seize and weaken. This problem may be due to serious damage to the car, so you need to quickly go to a reputable garage to check and repair it.