An engine is the heartbeat of any car, and as a car owner, you want to keep your vehicle’s engine in optimal condition to prolong its lifespan and prevent any unexpected breakdowns. In this article, we have listed essential expert tips you should focus on when looking after your vehicle’s engine.
- Changing oil frequently
The engine has dozens of moving parts that are susceptible to wear and tear if not lubricated. You should give your car engine a regular oil change to keep these moving components in working condition at all times.
- Clean your engine regularly
A car engine needs a thorough washing at least once every year. Dirt, dust, and debris accumulate on oily engine surfaces, lowering the cooling system’s efficiency by increasing insulations. Steam cleaning at a car wash is more effective than doing it at home, but both do the trick. Cleaning not only allows your engine to breathe but also reveals any leaks and worn-out components that need replacement.
Caution should be taken when cleaning to avoid damaging water-sensitive parts such as electrical parts, air tubes, and distributors. It is advisable to use a non-corrosive grease-cutting detergent while cleaning.
- Check your air filters
Air filters easily get clogged by dust and debris, which chokes the entire engine system by consuming more energy and fuel than expected. The result is a broken air filtration system. Experts suggest getting an air filter replacement every 12,000 miles, but you should check the system regularly for any faults.
- Monitor the radiator
As the engine breaks down fuel into mechanical energy, it produces excessive and unnecessary heat. The radiator transfers this heat from the engine into the atmosphere through the circulation of the antifreeze.
Diesel engines produce more heat than petrol engines, and their radiators tend to get overworked. Nonetheless, all engine radiators should be monitored frequently for performance and physical defects. In case of any defect, you can have a radiator exchange where rust and impurities are eliminated from the antifreeze and the system topped off with new antifreeze.
- Replace fuel filters
Gas-powered engines have a single fuel filter, while diesel vehicles have two. Fuel filters trap water particles present in the fuel. These particles could lead to engine failure, the explosion of fuel injectors, or a decrease in horsepower. Most engines need fuel filter replacement every 10,000 miles, and you should check them out frequently for malfunctions.
- Look for leaks
We have seen how vital oil and antifreeze are in a car engine. Unfortunately, these fluids could leak due to broken pipes or faulty valves, and when this happens, it reduces the system’s efficiency. Always check your parking spot for oil drops and consult a mechanic when you spot any.
- Keep an eye on the engine light
Modern vehicles have an engine light that provides an early warning system in case of faults. It would be best if you ran to a mechanic whenever your engine lights pop up for full diagnosis before a complete breakdown.
Endnote
A vehicle is a considerable investment, and to maximize its mileage potential; it is wise to keep its engine in good shape. Frequently change oils, check for broken components and carry out other crucial steps mentioned in this article to make the most out of your vehicle.