The engine of a car is like its heart, and is very expensive to replace. By taking good care of your car’s engine, it will last much longer. There are many car owners that have owned their cars for years and their engines still run like new. How do they do it? What’s their secret? Here are some common vehicle maintenance tips that you should know.
Regular Vehicle Inspection
The owner’s manual contains a basic car maintenance checklist. As much as possible, these simple assessments can be done by you. When you have inspected the different components of your vehicle, you will then know what to do next. If you can’t do the inspection by yourself, it is best to call for assistance or professional help.
Change your car’s oil regularly
The engine of your car has lots of moving parts. These moving parts have to be lubricated well no matter what the weather is like. That is why the oil in the engine is very important.
Every time you drive your car, the oil in it degrades. The oil breaks down and it loses its ability to lubricate under high temperatures. This results in carbon deposits on the engine’s internal parts. The carbon deposits may reach to the engine, then into the valves, and then build up inside the throttle body. This will then light the “Check Engine” and cause problems. Wear in engine will accelerate as friction increases. That is why it’s important to check and change your engine’s oil regularly.
Check Drive Belts
Car engines don’t just turn the wheels. They also generate power so other parts run as well. Here is where the drive belts are. Drive belts transfer power from the crankshaft to the car’s alternator, air and water pump, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and other devices that need mechanical power to function. Drive belts are made of rubber so they tend to wear even with normal use. Over time, like all things, they degrade, so it’s important to check these belts.
Don’t let your engine overheat
Overheating is the greatest enemy of car engines and it’s the reason behind most engine failures. In worst case scenarios, overheating can even lead to engine replacement. A common problem is when there are leaks that cause the engine’s coolant level to drop This then causes the engine to overheat. Another cause is when there is a failure in the water pump, thermostat or radiator fan.
To prevent your engine from overheating, keep its cooling system in top shape and check regularly for any defects. Have your car’s engine checked if its temperature increases more than normal. Also, look out for coolant leaks and get them repaired before further damage occurs. Keep the radiator front clean as the air flowing through its fins keeps the coolant’s temperature down.
Keep the air filter clean
The function of the engine air filter is to prevent dust and small particles from being sucked into the engine. If the air filter becomes clogged, the air flow is restricted. Air filters are normally replaced around every 25,000 miles. An air filter replacement can cost up to $50 and many DIY car enthusiasts change it at home. It’s not that complicated so you can do it on your own.
Make sure to replace the spark plugs
Some vehicles have the typical spark plugs while some have long-lasting ones made of platinum or iridium. The typical spark plug wears out depending on the vehicle’s mileage and the electrode gap increases. When the gap is larger, the voltage needed to produce the spark increases. This will add load to the car’s ignition coil and spark plug wire. If the spark plugs aren’t replaced, the ignition coil will eventually fail, the spark plug wire will short and the engine will misfire. Conventional spark plugs need to be replaced at around 70,000 miles.
The overall health of your vehicle depends on its engine so it’s wise to take good care of it. Make sure to inspect it regularly. Take it to the shop if you can’t do it by yourself. If you need any professional help, you can contact Carfect today.
