You can make a big difference to how long your engine lasts and how reliable it is by following a few simple trusted tips, trade secrets & tricks.
While no engine can truly last forever, there are many things you can do as a car owner to extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s engine. For most people, the only motivation for trading in a car is when it becomes unreliable or starts racking up expensive repair bills. However, by taking a few extra precautions and following some proven maintenance practices, you can keep your engine running smoothly for many years.
We’ll break down everything you need to know about maintenance, including the importance of oil changes, how to warm up and cool down your engine properly, and why paying attention to minor issues can save you from major problems down the line. If you care about the longevity of your engine and want to avoid expensive repairs, this video is for you.
Every car manufacturer specifies a service interval for your vehicle. For some, that might be every six months, while others may recommend a service every 9, 12, or even 24 months. The service regime typically includes both an oil service and an inspection service.
It’s important not just to follow the manufacturer’s service intervals, but also to ensure that the correct grade of oil and the right additive package are being used. Many modern engines are highly sensitive to the type of oil used, and using the wrong oil can cause serious issues.
Using an incorrect oil may affect other components, such as the catalytic converter, particulate filter, and even the wear and tear inside the engine. Cheap oil might seem like a money-saving option, but it could lead to far bigger repair bills down the line due to accelerated deterioration.
Beyond oil, every fluid in your car – from coolant to brake fluid – is carefully selected by the manufacturer for a reason. Using the right fluids ensures that your car runs smoothly and avoids problems like overheating, corrosion, or poor brake performance.
Another important factor is the frequency of oil changes. While manufacturers often recommend oil change intervals, these guidelines can be overly optimistic. If you make frequent short trips, or if your car’s engine is exposed to harsh conditions, the oil can become contaminated much faster than the manufacturer suggests. Over time, the oil may accumulate wear metals, indicating that the engine is wearing down.
The key to long engine life lies in regular oil changes. If the oil starts to degrade or collects too many contaminants, it can lead to faster engine wear. So, rather than strictly adhering to manufacturer guidelines, many car owners find it better to change their oil more often to err on the side of caution.
Another key aspect of engine longevity is how you drive, particularly when the engine is cold. When the engine is cold, the metal components haven’t expanded to their optimal size, and the oil hasn’t reached its full lubricating potential. Pushing the engine too hard while it’s cold can lead to issues such as piston slap and poor lubrication, accelerating wear and tear.
If you’ve been driving on the highway or at high speeds, giving the engine a few minutes to cool down at a lower speed helps prevent thermal shock and reduces stress on engine components.
Mechanical sympathy – or the way you treat your engine – also extends to how you drive. If you have a manual transmission, it’s crucial to choose the right gear for the situation. Driving in too high a gear, known as “lugging,” can put excessive stress on the engine at low RPMs. Conversely, revving the engine too high too often can also cause damage. The key is to vary your driving and avoid extreme RPM ranges for long periods of time.
In addition to these practices, it’s vital to pay attention to minor problems as they arise. Strange noises, smells, or performance issues should never be ignored. Catching issues early on ensures they don’t escalate into larger, more expensive problems. A diagnostic tool plugged into your car’s OBD-II port can help you identify trouble codes before they turn into serious engine failures. Addressing these problems promptly can save you from major repairs later.
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Legal Notice: Unless we have inspected your car we can only provide generic theory. All information is provided without warranty, please check any recommendations made with a mechanic locally to verify it would be legal in your area or region and that it would be suitable for your car and your needs.