A CONKED out mill ranks right near the top of every driver’s long list of motoring headaches: A lit engine light, strange noises under the hood, or subpar performance – all of which indicate that something is wrong with your vehicle.
You don’t need to be an expert mechanic to keep your ride in good condition. Turning ideal car ownership practices into everyday habits does more than half the job. With that in mind, here are ways you can proactively protect your vehicle’s engine:
- Know your car like the back of your hand
The simplest item on this list is also the most vital. Familiarize yourself with your car’s performance, its limits, the sounds it makes, and its fuel efficiency, daily. Knowing your car like the back of your hand is the first step to keeping problems at bay. And if something does go wrong, the faintest squeal will tell you that something needs to be fixed.
- Make checking your fluids a habit
That dipstick is there for a reason – it makes sure your car never runs without engine oil. Oil is to an engine as blood is to a heart – it can’t run without the other.
- Keep tabs on your filters
The only thing standing in between a proper combustion process and unwanted agents – such as dirt, dust, and other debris – is your air filter. It gets really dirty, so be sure to replace when necessary.
- Remember your oil change intervals
Never ever forget your oil change intervals. Check your car’s manual and take note of the recommendations. Don’t just take any shop’s word for it either: When in doubt, always refer to your manufacturer.
Motor oil, no matter how good it is, will deteriorate over time. When left long enough, it becomes a sludge that’s harmful to your engine. Regular oil changes directly affect your vehicle’s long-term reliability. (topgear.com.ph)
