(This post contains content from ezinearticles.com. Read it here.)

Just about anyone who's owned a few cars has experienced at least one - and probably most - of these symptoms. This list provides some insight into what often causes the problems. If we can answer any questions for you, call or visit a Mountain View Tire location near you.

1) Hard Starting: It’s a common problem and usually the result of a bad electronic component or the computer that controls the ignition system. There may be a problem with the starting sensor (on fuel injected models) or the choke mechanism (on engines with carburetors).

2) Knocking: Typically, you’ll hear this noise when your engine is accelerating or climbing a hill. It can be caused by bad gas, a build-up of carbon inside the engine or, worst case, engine damage. 

3) Stalling: Causes include incorrect speed adjustments, a malfunctioning sensor or switch, dirty fuel system parts, worn spark plugs, or other engine deficiencies.

4) Power Loss: You hit the gas, but she doesn’t take off like she used to. Could be a dirty or clogged fuel filter. If not, we can run a diagnostic test to find the cause of the problem.
 
5) Poor Gas Mileage: To determine if your mileage is dropping, divide the total miles you drove on a tank of gas by the number of gallons of gas you used. Your gas mileage may drop if your tires are underinflated, the engine is running too cold, or the wheels are misaligned. Dragging brakes and a faulty transmission can also affect fuel economy.
 
6) Dieseling: You may know it as "after-run."  The engine keeps chugging and coughing for several seconds after the ignition is shut off. Causes can range from inferior gas to excessive idle speed. Carbon in the combustion chamber may cause dieseling too.

7) Exhaust Odor: The smell of rotten eggs comes from the catalytic converter, part of your car's emissions control system. The odor can be caused by an engine problem or it may be a sign that the catalytic converter is malfunctioning.

8) Rough Running: A malfunction in either the fuel or ignition system can cause an engine to run rough. It also can be due to a bad valve or piston. Notice if it occurs when the car is idling, accelerating, and/or at all speeds. 

If you notice these or any other symptoms, or if you're in the Los Angeles area and need new tires or another type of auto repair, click here to schedule an appointment at any Mountin View Tire location. Our ASE-certified technicians can diagnose the problem, perform any necessary repairs, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.