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Basic Engine Health: Vital to Your Vehicle's Performance

Your engine stands as one of the most crucial components of your vehicle. Without it operating efficiently, your ability to travel anywhere becomes impossible. An inefficient engine can lead to serious problems. At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego, we offer the expertise and parts necessary to maintain your engine's performance and ensure its continued reliability. Continue reading to learn more about the different aspects of your engine that require maintenance and attention.

Affordable Engine Repair You Can Trust
Today's engines are highly complex and contain just as many computer parts as mechanical parts. Trust your engine repairs to a team that is not only honest and reliable but also highly trained in the latest diagnostic and repair techniques.

Get An Engine Repair Estimate
Sometimes your truck or car engine needs to be repaired. Seals, pistons, and rods wear out and may need to be replaced during your automobile's lifetime. At Ken's Auto Center we provide you with an honest cost estimate, affordable options to keep the cost of engine repair low, and the highest standard of service.

Get The Best
To learn more about our engine repair and maintenance services, please contact us by phone at 858-578-8200 or stop by today at 9555 Black Mountain Rd
Suite F & G, San Diego, CA, 92126


Additional Services We Offer


Oil Changes

During an oil change, examining the engine oil provides crucial insights into your engine's health. Ideally, the oil should be darker than when new, maintain consistent viscosity, and contain no solid particles. Solid particles in the oil suggest deterioration of internal components like seals, which can cause rapid and extensive damage due to the engine's finely balanced mechanisms and tight clearances.

Engine Coolant Check

Maintaining the correct operating temperature with engine coolant fluid is critical to preventing engine distress. Your engine operates within specific temperature limits, and exceeding these can cause issues like radiator failure. Overheating may pressurize the radiator, leading to dangerous scalding water sprays. Using the proper engine coolants can help avoid these hazardous situations.

Ignition Wires & Cables

Ignition cables, or spark plug wires, are vital for transmitting the spark from the ignition coil to the spark plugs, ensuring your car's engine starts and runs smoothly. Faulty ignition cables can lead to engine misfires, poor gas mileage, illuminated engine warning lights, and vibrations.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are essential for delivering electric current from the ignition system to the combustion chamber, and aged or neglected ones can cause ignition problems. Our automotive experts can inspect and replace your spark plugs to ensure optimal engine performance. Whether you need basic oil service or extensive engine repairs, contact us at 858-578-8200 to get your engine running at full capacity.

Cylinder Head Repair

The cylinder head, located at the top of the engine block, seals the cylinder and forms the combustion chamber, playing a crucial role in managing airflow and maintaining proper cylinder sealing. Inadequate compression from a faulty cylinder head can lead to driving challenges.

Engine Replacement

Engines convert energy into essential mechanical motion, propelling your vehicle forward. Despite their general reliability, car engines can succumb to damage and breakdowns. In such instances, don't fret; take prompt action. Deliver your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a reliable engine replacement.

Engine Repair FAQs


Is It Okay to Drive With the Engine Light On?

The short answer, "No." The longer explanation is the light may indicate a serious engine failure and continuing to use your car as if nothing is wrong could result in a very expensive engine repair bill. The check engine light means you should stop driving and have your car looked at as soon as possible by a professional at Ken's Auto Center in San Diego.

What Could Cause a Check Engine Light to Come On?

Come by Ken's Auto Center and we can diagnose the reasons for a check engine light turning on. It can range from something serious like a faulty catalytic converter or potential engine failure to something simple like a loose gas cap or the need for a simple 50K or 100K mile manufacturer maintenance check.

How Long Should an Engine Repair Take?

The time it takes to rebuild an engine varies greatly, ranging from a few days for simple jobs to several weeks for intricate work. Regardless of the timeframe, a thorough understanding of the engine's components and strict adherence to the manufacturer's guidelines are essential for a successful and long-lasting rebuild.

What Does an Intermittent Flashing Check Engine Light Mean?

Flashing check engine lights warn of severe situations requiring immediate attention. Get your vehicle to an auto repair shop as quickly as possible or get it safely parked and call a tow truck to take it to your preferred auto repair shop.

What Does Engine Repair Include?

Addressing minor issues like head gasket leaks, worn belts, or oil pan seals can prevent extensive damage and costly engine replacements down the line. Timely repairs are key to minimizing the severity of engine problems.


To learn more about our engine repair services, call us at 858-578-8200 or request a quote by clicking below:


Request Quote


Discover More About Engine Repair Services At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego

Transmission Repair Services
Car & Truck Care Services
Engine Heating & Cooling Services


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OUR REVIEWS

 (117 Reviews)
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I don’t leave reviews, but Ken’s Auto went above and beyond. Absolutely a place and people you can trust. Our car was totaled by an uninsured driver. Took a Volvo to Ken’s for a pre-purchase inspection. They did not know me. I was not an established customer. In fact, live out of state. They made time quickly, advised against it, gave me lots of input regarding other potential cars, and when that didn’t work, located a car that did, found a new engine, new tires, etc., got it ready on a time crunch for a cross-state road trip. It handled beautifully. I wish I lived locally so I could continue to take my cars there. Best auto shop experience, hands down. Thank you!

, 03/09/2025

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