Engine Repair

Your engine starts sputtering. Maybe there’s smoke. Or maybe that dreaded check engine light flashes on. What now? You could ignore it. But trust us, that’s a one-way ticket to a bigger problem. At Cowden Automotive in San Francisco, we see these engine issues all the time. They’re common, yes—but that doesn’t make them any less serious. Here’s what might be happening under the hood and how we fix it. Let’s dive in.

1. Oil Leaks
Oil leaks are more than just an annoying stain on your driveway—they’re a sign that your engine is bleeding out. And trust us, it doesn’t stop there. When oil starts seeping out, it means your engine’s lubrication is in jeopardy. This is particularly common in older Hondas, especially models from 2006 to 2015. The seals and gaskets, especially the valve cover and oil pan gaskets, degrade over time, leading to leaks that can go from bad to catastrophic if not addressed.

At Cowden Automotive, we don’t just slap a temporary fix on the problem. Our process involves thoroughly cleaning the engine, replacing the faulty gaskets, and using high-quality sealants to ensure the new parts fit perfectly. We check for any oil residue, making sure every component is tightly secured. That way, the oil stays where it belongs—inside your engine, not leaking out. Skip this repair? You’re risking low oil levels, overheating, and eventually a seized engine.

2. Timing Belt Failures
A timing belt failure doesn’t announce itself. One minute, your engine’s purring. The next? Complete shutdown. No warning. Nothing. This is particularly common in Toyota models, especially Camrys from 1998 to 2007. If the timing belt snaps while driving, the engine’s internal components clash violently, leading to severe damage. Valves can bend, pistons can crack, and your engine might be toast.

At Cowden Automotive, we know that replacing a timing belt isn’t just about swapping an old belt for a new one. It’s about precision. We align the camshaft and crankshaft perfectly to maintain the engine’s timing. With Toyota Camrys, for example, the recommended interval for replacing the belt is between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. We also replace related components, like the water pump and tensioners, to ensure a smooth, quiet ride. Don’t wait for a disaster—get that belt changed before it’s too late.

3. Engine Overheating
Overheating isn’t just an occasional annoyance—it’s a serious warning that something’s off in your cooling system. For Nissan Altimas, especially models from 2013 to 2018, overheating is often caused by a failing radiator or a weak water pump. Once the temperature gauge climbs, the heat can cause major damage to the engine block and head gasket, warping parts and leaving you with a much bigger repair bill than you ever expected.

The fix? At Cowden Automotive, we conduct a full diagnostic of your cooling system. First, we pressure test the radiator for leaks, then check the thermostat and water pump for proper operation. If the radiator or pump needs replacing, we install only top-tier components to ensure long-lasting performance. We also flush the entire system to clear out any debris that could lead to future overheating issues. When we’re done, your engine will run cooler than a San Francisco summer breeze.

4. Fuel Injector Problems
Your engine’s starving. It’s not getting the fuel it needs to perform at its best. In Ford F-150s, especially those built between 2011 and 2016, fuel injectors are a common source of trouble. When they’re clogged or failing, you’ll notice a rough idle, a loss of power, or even engine misfires. Poor fuel economy is another clue. The problem starts small but gets worse over time, with the engine struggling to maintain optimal performance.

At Cowden Automotive, we clean or replace your faulty injectors. For cleaning, we use specialized equipment that flushes out all the gunk and grime, restoring proper spray patterns. If replacement is necessary, we install new injectors with precision. Afterward, we run a complete fuel system diagnostic to ensure everything’s flowing perfectly. Getting your injectors fixed now prevents larger problems later, like a damaged catalytic converter or even complete engine failure.

5. Head Gasket Failures
Subaru owners, take note—if you drive a 2010-2014 Outback, you’ve probably heard about head gasket failures. It’s the kind of issue that can take your car off the road for weeks if not addressed. When the head gasket blows, coolant seeps into the engine, causing white smoke to billow from the exhaust and the engine to overheat. Worst case scenario? A cracked engine block, which means it’s time for a complete engine replacement.

At Cowden Automotive, we handle head gasket repairs with surgical precision. First, we remove the cylinder head, inspect it for damage, and machine it flat if needed. Then we replace the head gasket with a high-quality, multi-layered steel gasket that’s designed to withstand the toughest conditions. After reassembling the engine, we pressure test the cooling system to ensure no leaks. It’s a complex job, but it’s one we’ve perfected over the years.

6. Ignition Coil Failures
Your car stutters, sputters, and eventually refuses to start. Welcome to the world of ignition coil failures. BMW 3 Series models, particularly those from 2007 to 2013, are known for having this problem. The ignition coils are responsible for creating the spark that ignites the fuel in your engine. When they fail, your engine misfires, fuel economy drops, and eventually, your car could stop working altogether.

At Cowden Automotive, we diagnose ignition coil problems with cutting-edge equipment. Once we pinpoint the faulty coil, we replace it with high-quality OEM parts. We also inspect the spark plugs, as worn plugs can cause premature coil failure. After installation, we run a full engine diagnostic to ensure the new coils are firing perfectly. With fresh ignition coils, your BMW will roar back to life, running smoothly and efficiently.

7. Catalytic Converter Failures
If your car smells like rotten eggs, you’re not imagining things. That’s the telltale sign of a failing catalytic converter, especially common in Chevrolet Malibus from 2008 to 2012. The catalytic converter’s job is to reduce harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful substances. When it fails, your engine loses power, and the check engine light flickers on. If left unchecked, it can lead to major engine damage.

At Cowden Automotive, we remove the faulty catalytic converter and replace it with a top-tier, emissions-compliant model. We also inspect the entire exhaust system for blockages or leaks that could have caused the failure in the first place. After installation, we clear any trouble codes and run an emissions test to ensure your car is back to peak performance. Don’t let a bad catalytic converter slow you down—get it fixed and keep your car running clean.

Engine troubles? They’re more common than you think. But they don’t have to stop you in your tracks. At Cowden Automotive, we know exactly what to look for—and how to fix it. Serving San Francisco and nearby areas like Fremont, we’re ready to get you back on the road in no time. Stop by today and let’s keep your engine running strong.