When the engine is rough, noisy, low on power, or the check engine light comes on, you need a clear answer before you authorize major work. At Auto Craft Garage, we combine professional engine diagnostics with targeted engine repair so you are not guessing between a simple sensor issue and a serious internal problem. Our technicians use OEM level scan tools, mechanical testing, and real road data to decide whether you need a car engine repair, engine oil leak repair, timing service, or in rare cases an engine replacement or rebuild.
Let’s Get You Rolling
Looking to schedule a service, inquire about a car, or start a custom repair project? Just fill out the form and our team will get back to you quickly to discuss your needs.
What our engine diagnostic test includes
Electronic engine diagnostics and data
Modern engines are managed by an ECU that constantly monitors sensors and systems. We perform a complete vehicle diagnostic test that includes:
- OBD II scan with detailed check engine light diagnostics and stored trouble codes.
- Review of freeze frame data that shows how the engine was running when the fault occurred.
- Live data for fuel trims, misfire counters, oxygen and air fuel sensors, boost and intake readings, and more.
- Verification of engine control module commands versus what the engine is actually doing.
According to the California Air Resources Board, OBD II systems are designed to monitor components that affect emissions and turn on the check engine light when a malfunction is detected, while storing information to help technicians find the source of the problem.
Mechanical testing of the engine
Not every problem is electronic. When needed, we follow up with mechanical tests, for example:
- Compression and leak down testing to evaluate cylinder sealing and head gasket integrity.
- Smoke tests and pressure tests for intake and crankcase leaks.
- Cooling system pressure checks if the complaint involves overheating or coolant loss.
- Inspection of timing components like timing belt replacement history, timing chain replacement needs, guides, and tensioners.
Supporting systems and tune up work
Many drivability issues come from supporting systems, not from a failed engine block. We inspect and service:
- Ignition components such as ignition coils replacement and spark plug service for engine misfire repair.
- Fuel delivery, injectors, and filters to address hesitation or loss of power.
- Air intake and filtration as part of a car engine tune up.
- Boost control and turbocharger repair options for engines equipped with turbochargers.
If the concern is minor and related to maintenance, we can coordinate with our Oil Change & Maintenance service instead of pushing you into major work.
Common Engine Problems we Solve
| Symptom | What we look at first |
|---|---|
| Rough idle or shaking under load | Misfire counters, coils, plugs, engine misfire fix, injector balance, vacuum leaks |
| Low power, poor acceleration | Air flow sensors, turbo and boost leaks, exhaust restriction, fuel delivery, timing alignment |
| Oil spots under the car | Oil leak repair points such as oil pan gasket replacement, valve covers, front and rear main seals |
| Burning oil smell or smoke | PCV system, cylinder sealing, engine oil leak repair, possible cylinder head gasket repair |
| Rattling noise from the front of the engine | Drive belts, engine belt replacement, pulleys, water pump change, timing components |
| Harsh vibration at idle or when shifting | Engine mount replacement, transmission mounts, exhaust contact with subframe |
| Check Engine light on or flashing | OBD II check engine light scan, data review, plan for accurate auto engine repair |
Oil Leaks, Gaskets, and Sealing Issues
Oil leaks can be minor or a sign of deeper trouble. We start with a careful cleaning and inspection to see whether you need a simple seal or a more serious repair. Typical services include:
- Engine gasket replacement at valve covers, oil pans, timing covers, and intake manifolds.
- Car oil leak repair at crankshaft seals or a rear main seal fix when practical.
- Evaluation for head gasket repair or full cylinder head repair when compression loss or coolant in the oil is found.
When we see signs of internal damage, we will explain whether targeted repairs like cylinder head gasket repair make sense, or if it is time to discuss an engine rebuild or engine replacement.
Timing Belts, Chains, and Water Pumps
Timing components keep your pistons and valves synchronized. If a timing belt or chain slips, serious internal damage can result. Our engine services include:
- Timing belt replacement at the mileage or time interval recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
- Timing chain replacement in engines that show noise, wear, or stretched chains and guides.
- Water pump replacement and drive belt replacement while timing covers are open, when appropriate.
We follow manufacturer procedures and torque values so that your new components last for the next service interval and beyond.
Rebuild, Remanufactured Engine, or Replacement
Serious failures like spun bearings, severe overheating, or broken internal parts sometimes make a full car engine replacement or rebuild the most sensible choice. Our team can:
- Evaluate whether your engine is a good candidate for rebuilding engine internally.
- Discuss engine remanufacturing or quality remanufactured units when available.
- Coordinate the complete engine replacement process, including fluids and initial runtime checks.
We will compare options, explain the pros and cons, and help you decide whether to invest in the current vehicle or consider alternatives. The goal is to protect both your safety and your budget.
Service Area
North (Buffalo Grove): Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Deerfield, Northbrook, Glenview, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Prospect Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines.
South (Chicago Midway): Garfield Ridge, Clearing, Archer Heights, Summit, Bridgeview, Burbank, Chicago Ridge, Oak Lawn, Bedford Park.
Why Drivers Choose Auto Craft Garage
- Technicians trained in both electronic and mechanical car engine repair.
- Structured diagnostic plans so you know what is being tested and why.
- Clear explanations in plain language before you approve any work.
- Ability to coordinate with Free Diagnostics, Oil Change & Maintenance, and Towing when needed.
- Documentation of readings and test results so you can see how we reached our conclusions.
Need Engine Diagnostics or Repair?
If your check engine light is on, the engine feels weak, or you hear new noises, call 224-482-2244. We will schedule an engine diagnostic visit, explain what we find, and help you choose the right repair path for your car.
FAQ
Short answers to common questions about engine diagnostics and repairs.
Not always, but it should never be ignored. The OBD II system turns the light on when it detects a problem that affects emissions or engine performance and stores information to help pinpoint the fault. A steady light usually means you should schedule diagnostics soon, while a flashing light means you should stop driving and arrange towing.
Simple issues can be identified in under an hour using scan data and basic checks. More complex problems may need mechanical testing, extended data logging, or multiple cold and hot starts. We will outline the plan and timing before we begin deeper diagnostics.
Yes. We perform timing belt replacement at the recommended interval and timing chain replacement when wear or noise shows it is needed. We follow factory procedures and often replace related components such as tensioners, guides, and water pumps during the same visit.
Yes. We locate the source of the leak and recommend the right engine oil leak repair, from an oil pan gasket replacement or valve cover seal to more involved work like a rear main seal. Early repair helps protect the engine and keeps oil off the driveway and exhaust.
We service many turbocharged gasoline engines and light duty diesel applications. That includes turbocharger repair options, boost leak diagnosis, and fuel system checks. For specialized or heavy duty platforms, we will advise case by case based on your vehicle.
If there is severe internal damage like spun bearings, heavy knocking, or multiple failed cylinders, a quality engine replacement or remanufactured unit can sometimes be more practical than layered repairs. We will compare options, explain the technical and financial impact, and help you decide what makes sense for your car.