Your car’s engine is its heart, the part that keeps everything moving. Just as you would take steps to ensure your own health, it’s vital to prioritize engine care to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
Engine maintenance not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces the risk of breakdowns and ensures optimal performance. In this guide, we’ll present five essential tips to enhance the lifespan of your engine.
Regular Oil Changes
One of the most fundamental tasks of engine maintenance is regular oil changes. Engine oil acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between moving parts. However, oil breaks down over time, losing its viscosity, and accumulates contaminants that can cause damage if left in the engine for too long.
But how often should you change your oil, and what type is best? It depends on your car model and how you drive, but typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for synthetic oil is a safe bet.
Conventional oil may require more frequent changes at 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Checking your car’s manual for manufacturer-recommended intervals is a good practice.
Monitoring Fluid Levels
Aside from oil, there are other critical fluids that your engine relies on. These include coolant to prevent overheating, transmission fluid to keep gears shifting smoothly, and brake fluid for responsive braking. Regularly check these levels and top them up if necessary.
Low levels could indicate a leak, which needs to be addressed immediately. Here are some telltale signs:
- Coolant: Look for puddles under your car, especially after it’s been stationary for a while.
- Transmission Fluid: Slipping gears or delayed shifts are red flags for potential transmission issues.
- Brake Fluid: A decrease in braking responsiveness or a “spongy” brake pedal can indicate low levels.
Changing Car Batteries
Battery performance can deteriorate over time due to factors such as extreme weather, which is why routine checks are essential. Look for corrosion around the terminals and ensure the connections are secure.
If your battery is more than a few years old or is showing signs of weakness, it’s wise to have it tested at an auto service center. When it’s time to replace it, invest in a reliable, high-quality battery, such as those offered by Reliable Car Batteries for Your Vehicle: Autobarn.
Replacing Air Filters
Air filters play a critical role in your engine’s performance by preventing dirt and debris from entering the combustion chamber. Over time, these filters can get clogged, restricting airflow and reducing efficiency. A dirty filter can also lead to increased fuel consumption and a decrease in power.
Most car manufacturers recommend replacing engine air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but if you drive in dusty conditions, you may need to change them more frequently.
Scheduled Maintenance Checks
Certain engine components, such as the timing belt and spark plugs, have a finite lifespan and need periodic replacement. The timing belt, for example, should be changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Neglecting to replace it can result in catastrophic engine damage because the belt synchronizes the engines’ functions. Spark plugs are another critical component and should be replaced as recommended by the manufacturer, usually around 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of plugs.
Faulty spark plugs can cause misfiring, which can damage the engine over time.