Hicks Family Subaru
Experiencing car engine issues? Learn how to spot common engine problems like overheating, strange noises, and power loss. Help keep your Subaru running strong!
Your Subaru is built for adventure—whether you’re hitting the open road, exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, or just handling your daily commute with confidence. But even the most reliable vehicles can experience car engine problems over time. Recognizing the signs early can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your Subaru performing at its best.
So, how do you know if your engine is bad? Below, we’ll go over the most common engine issues, their warning signs, and what might be causing them.
The check engine light (CEL) is often the first warning that something isn’t right under the hood. While it doesn’t always indicate a major issue, it’s a sign that your Subaru needs attention. In addition to the CEL, here are other key indicators of car engine problems:
Your Subaru’s signature BOXER® engine is designed for smooth operation, so if you hear knocking, grinding, or rattling sounds, it could indicate worn bearings, misfires, or spark knock (a condition where fuel ignites at the wrong time and can damage your engine).
If your vehicle isn’t accelerating like it used to or struggles to climb hills, it may be due to fuel system issues, ignition problems, or sensor malfunctions. A failing oxygen sensor, clogged fuel injector, or worn-out spark plug can all cause reduced engine efficiency.
Pay attention to the color of your exhaust smoke. It can reveal a lot about potential engine issues.
If your Subaru isn’t getting the fuel economy it used to, a dirty mass airflow sensor (MAF), faulty oxygen sensor, or fuel delivery issue could be causing poor combustion efficiency, forcing you to fill up more often.
Frequent overheating is a major red flag. Low coolant levels, a failing radiator, or a broken thermostat could all cause your engine to overheat, potentially leading to warped cylinders, cracked engine blocks, or a blown head gasket. All costly repairs!
Understanding what’s behind your engine problems can help you take proactive steps to prevent breakdowns. Here are five of the most common culprits:
Oil is essential for lubricating your engine’s moving parts. Running low on oil or using old, dirty oil can lead to friction, overheating, and severe engine damage. Sticking to Subaru’s recommended oil change schedule can help prevent oil starvation.
Spark plugs and ignition coils play a crucial role in firing up your engine. If they wear out or fail, you may experience misfires, rough idling, or difficulty starting your car. Regular tune-ups help keep your ignition system in top shape.
Your Subaru’s cooling system helps regulate engine temperature. If the radiator, thermostat, or water pump fails, your engine could overheat, leading to costly damage. Check your coolant levels regularly and address leaks promptly.
A clogged fuel injector, failing fuel pump, or dirty fuel filter can lead to poor fuel delivery, causing sluggish acceleration and increased fuel consumption. Routine fuel system maintenance can help keep your engine running efficiently.
Modern Subarus rely on sensors to optimize fuel efficiency and performance. If an oxygen (O2) sensor, mass airflow sensor, or crankshaft position sensor fails, it can affect your engine’s operation, triggering the check engine light and reducing efficiency.
If you’re experiencing any of these car engine issues, don’t ignore them. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine, misfires, or power loss can cause long-term damage and lead to even more expensive repairs.
Regular maintenance, like oil changes, coolant flushes, and system checks, is key to preventing common engine problems. But if your Subaru is constantly in the shop for repairs, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
If your engine problems are becoming frequent and repair costs are adding up, it may make more financial sense to upgrade to a new Subaru. Today’s Subaru models offer improved performance, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features. Plus, they come backed by Subaru’s legendary reliability and symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) for confidence in any condition.
Whether you need expert diagnostics, routine maintenance, or a new vehicle, Hicks Family Subaru is here to help. Our factory-trained technicians specialize in Subaru models and can quickly identify and fix common engine problems. Book a service appointment today to keep your Subaru running at peak performance, or explore our latest Subaru models and trade in your old vehicle for a reliable, adventure-ready ride. Visit Hicks Family Subaru today or browse our inventory online!
