Investing in a vehicle is a big deal. To get the most out of your investment, you want to care for your car as much as possible. Today, Dave’s Auto Repair gives ten tips for car engine maintenance.
1. Avoid Revving
First, pay attention to your driving style. If you’re driving in a city or a high-traffic area, you want to avoid revving.
Engines are made to run at a constant speed, so fluctuating this speed often causes premature wear and tear.
Instead of revving your engine, start and stop gradually.
2. Replace or Clean Spark Plugs
Next, replace the spark plugs and wires as they age. You can also clean the spark plugs and wires if they get dirty so they can perform as efficiently as possible.
3. Replace the Fuel Filter
Third, replace your fuel filter. Fuel filters stop debris and dirt from getting into the combustion chamber. However, as the filter ages, it is less effective. An old fuel filter can lead to increased build-up of dirt and debris in the engine, which decreases efficiency.
4. Don’t Ignore the Check Engine Light
If the check engine light comes on in your vehicle, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with your mechanic as soon as possible to inspect the problem. This light can turn on for something as simple as a loose gas cap, or something as serious as a transmission failure.
5. Inspect the Belt
The belts are the links that keep your engine’s parts working together. Inspect these belts by listening for squealing under the hood. If you hear or feel something unusual, replace the belts whenever needed to avoid serious problems.
6. Don’t Drive With Reserve Fuel
Sixth, don’t drive with reserve fuel. If the fuel light turns on, fuel up as soon as you can. Driving with low fuel leads the dirt and debris in your tank to your fuel pump, which significantly increases wear.
7. Check for Leaks
Always check for leaks whenever you get out of your vehicle. A quick glance under your vehicle can inform you of potential problems.
8. Clean the Engine Air Filter
You also need to clean your engine’s air filter after putting some miles on your car. Just like you, your engine needs to breathe. A clean or new air filter can help your engine get the air it needs to run efficiently.
9. Check the Coolant Level
Ninth, keep an eye on your vehicle’s cooling system. Engines need to stay cool to operate safely and efficiently. If coolant levels are running low, fill them up.
10. Get Regular Oil Changes
Lastly, receive oil changes on a routine basis. Your owner’s manual contains specific details about the frequency of oil changes required for your make and model.
Visit Dave’s Auto Repair for Affordable Car Service
Did your check engine light turn on? Are you due for an oil change? Looking to receive a vehicle inspection? Dave’s Auto Repair is the place to go, whatever your car maintenance needs may be. Schedule your appointment on or website or by calling (941) 371-5981. You can also visit us in-person at 4547 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, FL!