Cars and trucks are all kinds of fun until something goes wrong with them. The thought of car problems also brings the companion thought of car repair expense! One of the best ways to keep your vehicle performing is to ensure the engine is getting all the attention it needs and the most obvious support for your engine is to follow the Owner’s Manual maintenance schedule that protects the whole car. By sticking to recommended maintenance, you’ll save money in the long run by avoiding a series of unfortunate events if auto parts and systems start failing.
Along with factory-recommended engine care, here are six tips that will keep you and your car on the road and out of the auto repair shop.
One: Add some TLC to your driving style
Although “built tough” is the way we like to think about our cars and trucks, they are complex, multi-faceted machines that should be respected and handled with care. To keep them running smoothly at maximum efficiency, there are some daily driving habits you can implement that will contribute to longevity of your car’s engine and won’t cost you a cent:
· While fast driving will not necessarily harm an engine, driving aggressively will. This includes down shifting (manual or dual-clutch transmission) to slow down instead of using the brakes as well as “flooring it” to accelerate to higher speeds rapidly. Smooth acceleration and smooth braking protect your engine, transmission, brakes, and other important components.
· Don’t let your fuel level stay low, it’s a good habit to fill up when the gas gauge resisters one-quarter of a tank. A gas tank contains sediment that settles at the bottom and driving on that “dirty gas” can clog the fuel filter, causing the fuel pump to overheat. Low fuel can mess with the gas/air mixture and the engine will sputter and misfire just before it dies and leaves you stranded. Over time, misfires can damage your engine.
· Cold weather is tough on a car’s engine, especially at 32 degrees Fahrenheit and below. Extreme cold impacts the viscosity and efficiency of the fluids—oil, gas, and coolant— taking more energy to start and run the engine. As opposed to letting a car sit and idle to warm up, a few minutes of gentle driving after startup will warm it up safely.
Two: Do regular oil changes
Changing the oil regularly is one of the most important things you can do to proactively protect your engine. Oil keeps vital engine parts well lubricated, so the engine runs smoothly and won't overheat. Going too long between oil changes or continued driving with low oil can cause permanent damage to your engine:
· Oil change recommendations generally range from 3,000 miles to 7,500.
· Check the Owner’s Manual for recommended oil change intervals as well as the best type of oil for your car.
· As cars age, they may require more frequent oil changes than when new.
· Replace the oil filter at every oil change and check to see if the air filter also needs replacement.
· Failure to use the right type of oil or not getting regular oil changes could void a new-car warranty.
Three: Don’t ignore strange noises
Cars are made up of many moving parts and, as such, will be prone to making noises when operating. When all is good, purring is the reward of a happy engine. But when something isn’t right, your engine will tell you with subtle or not-so-subtle noises.
Never ignore a strange engine noise. It’s best to find out what’s wrong and correct any problems before they become a costly repair. Here are some common noises and possible issues to watch out for:
· Knocking or pinging: Wrong fuel grade; using low-octane instead of high-octane impedes your car’s performance.
· Popping: Worn or dirty spark plugs, bad ignition wires, clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, or problem with the distributor cap or rotor.
· Whining or humming: Transmission problem or differential gear train wear issues.
· Hissing: Indicates a probable leak of oil or coolant dripping onto the exhaust manifold or other heated engine part.
· Ticking while idling: Low on oil and likely overdue for an oil change.
· Squealing or screeching: Loose or worn belts to engine, alternator, water pump, power steering pump, compressor, or radiator fan.
· Rattling: Loose or missing bolts, body damage, or failing equipment from exhaust system, catalytic converter, worn water pump, or timing belt. or interior trim pieces or roller track on doors and windows.
Four: Don’t ignore automotive warning lights
Automotive warning lights are how your vehicle communicates with you. From a simple door ajar to serious engine trouble, warning lights alert you to anything amiss. Not all warning lights require immediate attention, but engine-related warning lights should never be ignored. Here are four warning lights that impact engine health:
· Check engine light: This is the light that causes the most concern for car owners. It can indicate something as simple as a loose gas cap or it can mean an internal engine problem. You should have the problem diagnosed as soon as possible and anything serious taken care of before any major damage occurs.
· Oil pressure warning light: You may just need to top off a low oil level or it may indicate a leak in the engine that could lead to much bigger problems. A low oil level should be addressed immediately to prevent engine damage from overheating.
· High engine temperature: Your engine is running too hot and is overheating. You need to stop driving and let it cool down to prevent extensive engine damage. It could be a low coolant level, a stuck thermostat, or a blown head gasket. Have a mechanic diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible.
· Low fuel warning: Indicates approximately two gallons or less of fuel remaining. You’re getting down to the “dirty gas” that can lessen engine performance as well as a level of fuel that could suddenly leave you stuck on the side of the road.
Five: Keep the cooling system working
Lack of or low oil is not the only thing that can cause an engine to overheat. If your cooling system is faulty, your engine can overheat. The cooling system includes the radiator, thermostat, water pump, and coolant/antifreeze, all designed to pull heat off a working engine, so it stays cool. Problems with any of those can adversely impact your engine:
· Always maintain the proper coolant level by topping off as necessary. Keep an eye on the color, if it’s brownish instead of the bright color you bought, it needs complete replacement.
· Keep the radiator’s airflow clear by keeping its fins/vents free of debris like leaves, dirt, and bugs.
· Flush your radiator as recommended by the automaker, generally every two to five years to keep clean coolant circulating.
· Check condition of the hoses connecting the parts of the cooling system and replace any that are showing wear,
· Test the thermostat and water pump to ensure proper function.
Six: Be on the lookout for leaks
Since your car’s fluids are all necessary for peak performance, any leaks should be dealt with quickly. Without the lubrication of various fluids, the engine and other parts of the car are at risk of failure so you may get a leak alert with an auto warning light. Not all engine related, here are the top five fluids to keep an eye on for dangerous leaks: Engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.
· Periodically check underneath your car for any leaks on the driveway or garage floor and identify the fluid.
· Look under the hood to see if you see or smell engine oil or coolant baking on hot engine parts.
· Brake fluid leaks often show up near the wheels of your car as yellow or brownish puddles.
· Power steering fluid leaks in seals and gaskets are indicated by stiffness or grinding noises when turning the wheel.
A healthy engine will improve your car’s overall performance, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. If your favored vehicle has an engine that’s damaged, LKQ Online has a huge inventory of high-quality used engines or remanufactured engines that can get you quickly and safely back on the road without breaking the bank. Search by year, make, and model of your car, including the VIN number for guaranteed fit, and find the perfect engine for your needs.