Any mechanical failure in a car is essentially a waste of time and money, two disadvantages that only the foresight and good use of our vehicle can help reverse. However, what happens when an error that we thought was small and not worth asking professional help becomes two, three or more damages at a time? Pay attention to these five flaws that could cost you even the July or December bonus.

The head gasket

The engine of a car is not only the heart of our vehicle, but one of the most complex automotive elements due in large part to the number of parts that compose it. Among them, for example, the head gasket fulfills a very important function, as it has to withstand high temperatures and its holes are the bridge through which oil and water constantly passes. Its mounting, therefore, must be perfectly airtight.

So what happens when you overheat or when the engine, no longer coolant, still working? In that case, the seal is no longer hermetic because the temperature – which may become too high – ends up deforming it. The terrible thing about the matter is that it is often not enough to change this piece.

If we add to the replacement of the cylinder head bolts, the oil seals – and other joints – and a usually necessary grinding, the cost can be greatly increased. However, in certain cases the timing belt, service belt and even the water pump can also be affected, so that added to the workforce, it becomes a disaster for our economy.

Broken or worn distribution belt

An element also associated with the motor, and mentioned lines back, is the timing belt. The user familiar with the operation of his car knows that it is in charge of synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft pulley with the camshaft sprocket, so that the valves open and close at the right time.

Well, well, when the strap breaks the timing is lost. What happens next is that the piston hits the valves and the valves become bent. Only the repair of this fault can cost an eye to the face in labor, so much so that it is one of those cases in which some would choose to buy another car. But as we said at the beginning of this note, foresight and timely observation can prevent this disaster.

This fault is associated with improper mounting of the belt, which may have occurred in an earlier revision or following its wear for a lifetime. Certain straps last longer than others, but apart from this, it is best to change it approximately every 80,000 km traveled. Although, in fact, not only the mileage matters, but the time of use, which’s recommended limit can be around three years.

Fuel pump faulty

More problematic for the cost itself of this gadget, a fuel pump damage is also a matter that can affect our economy. This part of the engine is responsible for accurately applying the correct pressure to the injectors at the indicated time. This piece is a precision instrument and works with very high pressures, which can range from 100 bar to 2,050 bar, according to the car brand.

The reasons associated with its malfunction may be the poor quality of the fuel used, excess water in the fuel, friction with metallic splinters, faults in the internal electrical system, etc. The cost of this implement can vary widely according to the brand of the vehicle, but it is not common that it falls from the S /. 1,000.

Clogged or worn nozzles

The obstruction of one of the injectors of our motor can even take us to change all. As all medium-sized auto knower insurance already know, these parts are in charge of supplying fuel to the engine permanently and very precisely, depending on the regime and load of the same.

The most common is that they break individually, but depending on the reason for the damage, two or more can be affected at the same time. This is an additional alert, as something on the circuit may be wrong. However, the breakdown of the injectors is usually related to poor fuel quality and metal chips or dust that may have clogged them. It is not common that they can be cleaned, but there are exceptions.

The individual replacement of the injectors is recommended only when it is only one affected. However, when it comes to two or more or if they have worn out by use time, it is best to replace them all at once so that their operation is properly balanced for the engine.

Turbocharged engines

This mechanical fault is reserved only for the owners of a car with turbocharged engine. Turbo breakdown of a supercharged propeller is probably one of the most expensive in the automotive market. This is due to the complexity of its structure and operation.

The turbo is composed of a turbine that is driven by the engine exhaust. On its axis, or center, is fixed a centrifugal compressor that takes air from the outside and, once it passes through a filter, it compresses to introduce it to a greater pressure in the motor. Failure of the turbo can occur due to manufacturing defects, due to the high engine speed, excessive temperature, lack of lubrication or impurities in the oil.