engine problem

[/ˈɛndʒɪn ˈprɑbləm/]
noun phrasepl: engine problems
problema de motor
1. A malfunction or defect in an engine that prevents it from operating correctly or efficiently
The car broke down on the highway due to an engine problem.
O carro quebrou na rodovia devido a um problema de motor.
2. Any mechanical issue affecting the engine's performance, including overheating, oil leaks, or failure to start
We discovered an engine problem during the vehicle inspection.
Descobrimos um problema de motor durante a inspeção do veículo.
In Brazil, when discussing car problems, people often use 'problema de motor' or informally 'pane' (breakdown). In the USA and NYC specifically, people might say the engine is 'acting up' or 'on the fritz.' Regular engine maintenance is culturally emphasized in both countries to avoid costly repairs.
NYC Slang
engine trouble / motor's acting up
Synonyms / Sinônimos
engine malfunctionmotor troublemechanical issueengine failureengine defect
Antonyms / Antônimos
engine efficiencysmooth operationproper functioning

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
problema de motor
Most common usage in Brazil
General Brazilian
problema no motor
Alternative phrasing also widely used
São Paulo
pane do motor
Informal colloquial usage
Portugal
problema do motor
European Portuguese variant

Related Words

mechanicengine repairdiagnosisperformancemaintenancebreakdown

Related Idioms & Phrases

engine giving trouble
motor on the fritz
something's wrong with the engine
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