When shopping for used INFINITI cars, most buyers focus on mileage, price, and appearance. But knowing what’s happening under the hood is just as important. Even well-maintained vehicles can develop engine problems over time, especially if past issues were fixed with temporary solutions or were never caught at all.
Understanding the most common engine problems in used INFINITI models can help you spot trouble before it gets worse. Whether you’re noticing a small oil stain in your driveway or your temperature gauge seems higher than usual, catching small problems early can help avoid big headaches down the road. Here are a few of the engine problems worth watching out for, and what can be done to fix them.
Overheating Issues
Overheating is one of the most common red flags you can experience in any vehicle, and used INFINITI cars are no exception. It can be caused by something simple, like a low coolant level, or something more involved, like a failing water pump. Regardless of the cause, it’s never something to ignore.
Common reasons for engine overheating include:
- Low coolant levels
- A broken thermostat
- Issues with the radiator, such as clogs or leaks
- A faulty water pump
- Broken or slipping serpentine belt
You’ll often notice steam rising from the hood or the temperature gauge moving beyond the halfway mark. Sometimes, warning lights will come on, and you might even smell burnt coolant, which has a noticeably sweet odor. In more severe cases, you may hear knocking sounds or experience reduced engine power.
To keep your engine from overheating, it’s a good idea to check coolant levels a few times a year, especially ahead of summer road trips. If you’ve had to top it off more than once in the past few months, that’s a sign there may be a leak somewhere in the system. Don’t be fooled by a visual check alone. Some leaks won’t leave puddles under the car but may still reduce cooling performance.
If the problem keeps happening or you’re not sure where it’s coming from, have a technician review the entire cooling system. There could be a cracked radiator hose or a thermostat that’s stuck. If caught early, repairs can be simple, like replacing a hose or flushing the system. Waiting too long could result in more severe engine damage, which is harder and more expensive to fix.
Oil Leaks
Another common issue with used INFINITI cars is oil leaking from the engine. While it might start out as a minor drip, leaks can grow into much bigger problems. They reduce the amount of lubrication in your engine, which can lead to grinding, overheating, or even full system failure if left unchecked.
Here are a few signs of an oil leak:
- Puddles or dark spots underneath where the car was parked
- A burning smell while driving or after shutting the engine off
- Low oil levels between routine oil changes
- Smoke coming from under the hood
Typical leak points include the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing. Rubber seals and gaskets can wear out over time, especially in vehicles that have seen a lot of miles or have sat for long periods without use.
Checking the oil level with the dipstick is a good habit to get into, especially if you’re driving an older model or just bought a used car. If you notice the oil level is dropping quickly, it’s time to pinpoint the source. Just wiping up oil spots under your car isn’t going to fix the problem.
Repairs for oil leaks depend on where the leak is coming from. Replacing a gasket usually isn’t a long process, but ignoring it can let oil drip onto other components, causing more wear or creating smoke and strong smells. Keeping oil inside where it belongs is one of the best ways to make sure your engine keeps getting the protection it needs.
Timing Chain Problems
Timing chains play a key role in keeping your engine’s components synchronized. If the timing chain starts to wear out, it can lead to all sorts of problems. When the chain becomes loose or elongated, it may cause the engine to misfire or run roughly. Rattling noises coming from the engine, especially at startup, can also be a telltale sign of a timing chain issue.
Timing chains are designed to last a long time, but they can still face challenges, particularly in used vehicles. The constant rotation and tension can eventually lead to wear and tear. Ignoring these signs puts the engine at risk and can lead to serious damage if the chain breaks or skips a tooth.
Professional inspection is key when symptoms of timing chain problems appear. While some might be tempted to ignore the odd noise, addressing it with a trained technician can prevent further damage. Regular checks and maintenance can help ensure everything stays in line and runs smoothly.
Spark Plug Failures
Spark plugs might be small, but they play a big part in engine performance. They’re responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders, which keeps the car running efficiently. Over time, spark plugs can wear out, leading to different performance issues. If your car stutters on startup or your fuel economy isn’t what it used to be, worn spark plugs might be the issue.
Here’s how to spot trouble with spark plugs:
- Hard starts or the engine is slow to fire up
- Reduced power and acceleration
- Poor fuel efficiency
Replacing spark plugs isn’t something you’ll need to do often, but putting it off can make your engine run less efficiently. Routine checks, ideally part of a broader tune-up, can catch these issues before they cause bigger problems. This simple maintenance step helps keep everything running smoother and more reliably.
Staying Ahead of Engine Trouble
Dealing with engine issues can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve just purchased a used INFINITI car. But the more you understand these potential problems, the better prepared you’ll be to handle them. Keeping an eye out for things like overheating, oil leaks, timing chain wear, and spark plug failure can help you avoid bigger headaches.
Preventative maintenance goes a long way. From flushing your cooling system and replacing worn gaskets to scheduling normal tune-ups, you’re giving your vehicle the attention it needs to last. If something doesn’t feel right with your car, don’t wait for it to get worse. Seeking help from experienced technicians means catching problems sooner and keeping your ride smooth and dependable.
At INFINITI City of Massapequa, we know what it takes to keep used INFINITI vehicles performing their best, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
It’s important to stay ahead of potential engine troubles by addressing any signs early on. Regular maintenance checks make a big difference in extending the life and performance of your vehicle. To find a reliable vehicle that suits your needs, explore our selection of used INFINITI cars available at INFINITI City of Massapequa. You’ll experience transparency and quality, ensuring peace of mind for every mile ahead.
Connect with us
