By Macoy Dawit
The engine is the heart of every car. If it fails, the entire vehicle suffers. Sadly, many drivers neglect engine care until problems arise. However, forming some simple habits can make a big difference. Taking care of your engine doesn’t require additional costs – it’s all about being consistent.
Regular actions like oil changes, replacing filters on time, and paying attention to warning lights can protect the engine and extend its lifespan. Much like tracking brake pad replacement cost helps you manage brake maintenance, keeping an eye on engine-related expenses can save you from costly repairs down the road.
How Regular Maintenance Helps You Save Big
The interplay of engine and oil is fundamental to the longevity of your car, and according to your car’s manufacturer the first step toward sustained engine happiness is regular oil changes. Oil thickens and gets dirty as it ages, losing its protective properties for the engine. Regular changes help prevent unnecessary wear and tear, while keeping the engine healthy and happy. Inspecting the coolant levels is essential too — low coolant can lead to overheating, which in turn results in damage and reduces the components’ lifespan.
Engine performance also depends upon keeping air filters clean, as dirty filters inhibit airflow and stress the engine. Listen to your vehicle’s sounds and smells; odd noises typically mean there’s a problem that needs attention. Addressing small issues early can avoid expensive repairs. You don’t have to be a car expert — just stay alert, and consult a reliable mechanic if something feels wrong. It’s just a matter of following these simple habits to avoid it, and you’ll keep your engine healthy for years to come.
Driving Habits That Save Your Engine
The way you drive can affect your engine far more than you think. A hard acceleration and hard braking put additional burden on engine components. Driving smoothly also reduces wear, acts to keep the engine cooler, and aids in maximizing fuel economy. Let the engine warm up before hitting the road. Cold oil is thick and viscous, and it fails to provide adequate protection in the long run, so allowing it to heat up before complete combustion is a good way to avoid damage over time. Do not work the engine hard by running at high speed for a long time.
This creates too much heat which can play havoc with the engine in the long run. Pay attention to warning lights at all times — they’re warning signs of potential problems ahead. If you ignore them, it may turn into a bigger problem later on. Another easy but important habit to maintain is not to run on low fuel. Sludge from the bottom of the tank can clog the fuel system, which can be expensive to fix. Keeping the tank full helps not only with fuel, but keeps dirt, sand, and particules entering unwanted components. Here are some driving habits that you can adapt to protect your engine:
- Smooth Acceleration and Braking: Reduce engine strain by avoiding hard starts and sudden stops.
- Engine Warm-Up: Allow the engine to warm up before driving to ensure proper oil circulation.
- Avoid High Speeds for Long Periods: High speeds generate excessive heat that can damage engine parts.
