The Crankshaft: What It Is and Why It Matters at Meineke in Sun Prairie
When your engine runs smoothly and delivers power efficiently, your crankshaft is doing its job. Because this part transforms piston movement into engine rotation, it plays a critical role in how your car drives. Whether you’re commuting through Sun Prairie or heading out on the town, your crankshaft must be in top shape.
At Meineke in Sun Prairie, we inspect and service crankshafts to prevent serious engine problems. So, in this post, we’ll explain what the crankshaft is, what it does, how it works, how to maintain it, and when to visit a mechanic.
What the Crankshaft Is
To begin, the crankshaft is a large metal shaft located at the bottom of your engine block. Since it connects to the pistons through connecting rods, it’s constantly moving when the engine runs. Although you don’t see it, the crankshaft plays a major role every time you start your vehicle.
Because it handles the engine’s internal force, the crankshaft must remain strong and perfectly balanced.
What the Crankshaft Does
The crankshaft converts the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational motion. While each piston fires in sequence, the crankshaft spins to keep the engine moving. So, it delivers power to the transmission and, ultimately, to your wheels.
Since smooth rotation is key to performance, the crankshaft also supports timing and balance throughout the engine.
How It Works
First, fuel ignites in the cylinder, pushing the piston downward. Then, that motion transfers through the connecting rod to the crankshaft. As a result, the crankshaft spins continuously to create engine rotation.
Because the crankshaft connects to pulleys, belts, and the flywheel, it also powers other components like the alternator and water pump.
How to Maintain the Crankshaft
Even though crankshafts are built to last, they can still suffer from wear or stress over time. So, follow these tips to keep your crankshaft running strong:
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Change your oil regularly, since clean oil reduces wear on the crankshaft bearings
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Avoid engine overheating, which can warp or crack crankshaft components
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Listen for knocking or ticking, which may point to bearing or crankshaft issues
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Fix oil leaks quickly, especially those around the front or rear main seals
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Visit Meineke in Sun Prairie for regular engine inspections, especially on high-mileage vehicles
Because proper lubrication and engine care reduce stress, these steps help extend your crankshaft’s life.
When to See a Mechanic at Meineke in Sun Prairie
Sometimes, crankshaft issues develop slowly and show subtle signs. So, visit Meineke in Sun Prairie if:
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You hear a knocking sound deep in the engine, especially during acceleration
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Your engine misfires or runs rough, even after spark plug replacement
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You notice low oil pressure, which may indicate bearing damage
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Your check engine light stays on, with codes related to the crankshaft position sensor
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You’ve skipped oil changes, or you drive a vehicle with over 100,000 miles
Since crankshaft failure can destroy your engine, early diagnosis can save you thousands in repairs.
So, Call Meineke in Sun Prairie Today for Crankshaft Inspection and Repair
Because your crankshaft powers every engine movement, keeping it healthy is essential for reliable driving. At Meineke in Sun Prairie, our certified technicians use advanced tools to detect crankshaft problems early. Whether you need a sensor replacement or a full inspection, we’re here to help.
So, call Meineke today and keep your engine strong—because smooth performance starts with a healthy crankshaft.
If the Meineke in Sun Prairie is not a convenient location, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations:
MEINEKE SHEBOYGAN #2989
3667 South Taylor Drive
Sheboygan, WI 53081
Call (920) 783-6013
MEINEKE MADISON #355
4008 Milwaukee Street Madison, WI 53714
Call (844) 374-1281
MEINEKE MADISON #1649
437 Commerce Drive
Madison, WI 53719
Call (833) 814-2314
MEINEKE SUN PRAIRIE #2057
2518 Ironwood Drive
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
Call (844) 687-9785
MEINEKE APPLETON #2136
1708 West Wisconsin Avenue
Appleton, WI 54914
Call (866) 532-0443
MEINEKE COTTAGE GROVE #2474
222 West Cottage Grove Road
Cottage Grove, WI 53527
Call (844) 453-2300
Meineke Car Care in Sun Prairie, WI
