DJ'S Repair Service Tech Question on Engine Failure
Question
I’m Collins. I had my engine go out and had to have it completely re-done. What could I have done to prevent this?
Answer
You’ve got to feel for Collins — an engine rebuild is one of the most expensive and frustrating repairs a driver can face. The good news is, most engine failures aren’t random; they’re preventable. Manufacturers design specific maintenance schedules to help you avoid these kinds of disasters, but when those intervals are skipped, small issues can snowball into catastrophic ones.
For example, if you delay replacing your timing belt and it breaks, you can end up with bent valves or a damaged cylinder head — repairs that often cost thousands. Ignoring coolant service can lead to overheating, which warps metal components and seizes moving parts. Even something as simple as stretching out oil changes can cause sludge to build up, blocking vital oil passages and starving expensive parts of lubrication.
The best prevention is consistency. Check your oil level every month, and follow your manufacturer’s recommended service schedule for oil, coolant, belts, and filters. If you’re behind on any maintenance, don’t wait — talk to your Service Advisor about creating a plan to get caught up. A few small, timely services can make the difference between smooth driving and a blown engine.
Give us a call — we’ll help you get your maintenance back on track and keep your engine running strong.














