Engine Repair in Missoula, MT
Engine problems range from a loose vacuum hose to serious internal wear, and from the driver's seat the symptoms can look a lot alike. A rough idle, a new noise, or an oil leak tells you something is wrong. It doesn't tell you how big the problem is.
That's why we diagnose first. You get a clear picture of what's going on and what your options are before anyone picks up a wrench, including an honest opinion when a repair isn't worth putting into a particular vehicle.
Signs of engine trouble
- Knocking, ticking, or tapping that's new or getting louder.
- Rough idle, stalling, or hesitation when you accelerate.
- Loss of power, especially going uphill or carrying a load.
- Blue smoke, which usually means burning oil, or white smoke that smells sweet, which can mean coolant.
- Oil leaks, or needing to add oil between changes.
- Overheating or a rising temperature gauge.
- A check engine light, flashing or steady.
What we check
We listen to the engine and find where a noise is coming from, then check the basics that often get skipped: oil level and condition, coolant level, and any codes stored in the computer.
From there, the testing depends on the complaint. A compression test or leak down test shows whether the cylinders are sealing. We check ignition and fuel delivery for running problems, and trace leaks back to the gasket or seal that's actually failing instead of the place the oil ends up.
Belts, tensioners, pulleys, motor mounts, and accessories are common sources of noise and vibration, and they're far simpler fixes than internal engine work. We rule them out before talking about anything bigger.
When we know what's going on, we show you what we found and lay out the options, from the smallest fix that solves it to the bigger repair if that's what it really needs.
What can wait and what can't
Don't put these off
- Knocking that gets louder with engine speed
- A low oil pressure warning
- Overheating
- Heavy smoke, or coolant in the oil
- A flashing check engine light
Often fine to wait
- A light oil seep that isn't dropping the level
- A slightly noisy accessory bearing, once we confirm it isn't getting worse quickly
- A worn motor mount that isn't causing a clunk or vibration yet
When a repair can wait, we'll tell you what to watch for so you know when it's time.
When an engine repair makes sense
Engine work is a big decision on an older or high mileage vehicle. We'll give you an honest opinion on whether the repair makes sense for what the vehicle is worth to you, and we won't push you toward the expensive option.
We work on engines in cars, trucks, and SUVs, foreign and domestic. Because we also do hot rod and performance work in house, we're comfortable with older engines and unusual setups.
Engine Repair questions
Is my engine worth repairing?
It depends on the repair, the condition of the rest of the vehicle, and what you need from it. We'll lay out the cost of the fix next to what we see in the rest of the vehicle and give you a straight opinion. Sometimes the honest answer is that it isn't worth it.
What does a compression test tell you?
It shows how well each cylinder holds pressure. Low or uneven readings can point to worn rings, a leaking valve, or a head gasket problem, and help us tell a serious internal issue apart from something simpler.
Why is my engine burning oil?
Common causes include worn piston rings, worn valve seals, or a clogged PCV system. Some are much cheaper to fix than others, so it's worth finding out which one you have before deciding anything.
How long do engine repairs take?
It ranges a lot, and some repairs depend on how quickly parts arrive. Once we know what it needs, we'll give you an honest idea of timing.
We show you before we fix it
Before any work starts, we walk you into the shop and show you what we found. If something can wait, we'll tell you.