Crankshaft and Camshaft: What They Are and When to See a Mechanic
Your engine is full of moving parts—but two of the most important are the crankshaft and camshaft. Since these components work together to control your engine’s timing, they play a critical role in keeping your car running smoothly. Whether you’re commuting through Easley or heading out to the farmers market, a healthy timing system means better performance and fuel efficiency.
At Meineke in Easley, our ASE-certified technicians offer expert engine diagnostics, crankshaft and camshaft inspections, and timing system repairs to keep your engine in top shape. So, in this post, the team at Meineke explains what the crankshaft and camshaft are, how they work, why they matter, how to maintain them, and when to visit a mechanic.
What Are the Crankshaft and Camshaft and How Do They Work?
The crankshaft turns the up-and-down motion of your engine’s pistons into the spinning force that drives your wheels. At the same time, the camshaft opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves, allowing air and fuel into the engine and letting exhaust out. Since both parts must stay perfectly in sync, a timing belt or chain connects them and keeps the engine running in rhythm.
If either one falls out of alignment, then your engine can misfire, stall, or suffer serious internal damage.
Why Are These Parts So Important?
Because the crankshaft and camshaft control fuel flow and power delivery, they are essential to your car’s performance and health.
-
Keeps your engine running smoothly – If both parts are synchronized, then combustion happens at the right time.
-
Protects internal components – If the timing stays on track, then pistons and valves avoid damaging collisions.
-
Improves fuel economy – If combustion is efficient, then your car uses less fuel.
-
Supports engine start-up – If both shafts function properly, then your vehicle starts easily.
-
Reduces emissions – If your engine burns fuel cleanly, then fewer pollutants are released.
How to Maintain the Crankshaft and Camshaft
Although these components are built to last, taking care of them helps prevent expensive repairs.
-
Get oil changes on time – If your oil stays clean, then it protects the crankshaft, camshaft, and related parts.
-
Replace your timing belt or chain as recommended – If you wait too long, then failure can cause serious damage.
-
Listen for strange engine noises – If you hear clicking or knocking, then your timing may be off.
-
Watch for performance issues – If your car hesitates, stalls, or misfires, then your timing system might be the cause.
-
Schedule regular tune-ups – If your mechanic checks your engine often, then you’ll catch problems early.
When to See a Mechanic in Easley
Since timing system problems can be hard to spot, acting quickly when symptoms appear can save your engine. Visit Meineke in Easley if:
-
You hear knocking, ticking, or other loud engine sounds
-
The check engine light is on
-
You’re due for a timing belt or chain replacement
-
You notice oil leaks or performance changes
So, Call Meineke in Easley Today for a Timing System Inspection
Since the crankshaft and camshaft work together to power your engine, keeping them in sync is essential for reliable performance. But if you’re hearing unusual sounds, noticing poor fuel economy, or are due for a timing service, Meineke on Calhoun Memorial Highway in Easley is here to help. Whether you need a belt replacement, a sensor diagnostic, or a complete engine inspection, our ASE-certified technicians have the tools and training to keep your car running strong. So, don’t let timing issues turn into engine trouble—call Meineke in Easley today for a quick check-up.
If the Meineke in Easley is not a convenient location, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke North and South Carolina locations:
North Carolina
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #1596
801 Fairview Road Suite 14
Asheville, NC 28803
Call (833) 720-9793
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #2467
124 Patton Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801
Call (833) 243-0637
MEINEKE MOORESVILLE #1931
190 East Plaza Drive
Mooresville, NC 28115
Call (980) 444-0002
MEINEKE LINCOLNTON #2159
2009 East Main Street
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Call (704) 240-9839
MEINEKE WALKERTOWN #2394
5267 Neal Trail Drive
Walkertown, NC 27051
Call (877) 688-8804
MEINEKE ARDEN #2468
2137 Hendersonville Road
Arden, NC 28704
Call (844) 891-3628
MEINEKE HICKORY #2884
1052 11th Avenue Blvd SE
Hickory, NC 28602
Call (828) 270-7267
MEINEKE KILL DEVIL HILLS #2199
1800 S Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Call (252) 564-7851
South Carolina
MEINEKE EASLEY #2983
6949 Calhoun Memorial Hwy
Easley, SC 29640
Call (864) 644-8872
MEINEKE ROCK HILL #1134
2366 Dave Lyle Boulevard
Rock Hill, SC 29730-8931
Call (803) 328-6677
Meineke Car Care in Easley, South Carolina
