Car problems are inevitable, even with the best car care. That said, engine trouble is one of the most serious auto repair problems you may experience while you're on the road. If ignored, engine problems will only exacerbate over time, increasing the potential for a breakdown and costly vehicle repairs

Keep a lookout for these signs to know when your car needs an engine repair service.

Your Car's Engine Is Overheating

If your car's in-cabin feels too hot or you can see steam rising from the front of the vehicle, these are clear indications of engine overheating. Car engines can overheat due to a variety of reasons, including the following:

• Engine oil leaks
• Thermostat failure
• A defective radiator
• A blocked coolant hose
• A faulty water pump

If your vehicle's engine is running too hot, make sure you have the issue addressed quickly. Otherwise, you'll risk experiencing a total engine breakdown, which may lead to expensive vehicle repairs or require a complete engine rebuild/replacement. 

Your Car's Performance Is Declining

The engine is the important car component that generates the power required to operate the vehicle. When it's running properly, your vehicle will deliver reliable performance. If you start noticing a decline in the performance of your car, this is an indication that the engine is losing power. This may happen due to various reasons, including:

• A dirty air filter
• A clogged fuel filter
• Failing fuel pump
• A bad catalytic converter
• Bad spark plugs

If your vehicle seems to be losing its usual power, especially while accelerating, don't hesitate to get the engine checked as soon as possible.

Your Car's Fuel Efficiency Is Going Down

To minimize vehicle running costs, car owners need to keep their vehicle's fuel consumption as low as possible. If you're getting poor gas mileage from your car, you should get the problem looked into to avoid spending more than you should at the gas station.

Some of the common reasons your car may be getting poor fuel economy include:

• A bad fuel injector
• A clogged fuel filter
• A failing oxygen sensor
• Faulty spark plugs 
• A clogged air filter

Fixing an engine with poor fuel economy will help get your car running efficiently again, thus keeping fuel expenses at a minimum.

Your Car's Check Engine Light Comes On

Your car's dashboard has several warning lights that let you know when something's wrong with the vehicle. One of these dashboard lights is the "Check Engine" light. As the name suggests, this dashboard light turns on when there's a problem with your vehicle's engine. Be sure to get your engine checked and repaired if you see the light come on while you're driving.

Just like other car problems, engine issues won't go away on their own. If you notice any sign of engine trouble, visit an auto mechanic near you right away.