There is a growing trend to keep a car a lot longer than we used to. We want to invest in something that gets us from point A to point B for many years to come. We often take for granted that our car will start every time we sit behind the wheel, but we should actively ensure this is the case.

Don’t ignore scheduled maintenance recommendations for your vehicle. Look in your owner’s manual, or online, for the suggested upkeep. Schedule in advance with Master Muffler Jerome so you’re not surprised when it’s time for that oil change again.

Tips for Extending Engine Life

When auto repair needs arise, don’t hesitate! Strange sounds, smells, or changes to your vehicle’s performance should be addressed immediately. Catching a problem early not only helps prolong the life of your vehicle but has a chance of being a less costly car repair than if you wait.

Routine Maintenance for Your Vehicle

• Regularly replace your car’s air filter. This will ensure air free from contaminants is used during your engine’s combustion process. If you’ve ever wondered why each visit to the auto repair shop includes the suggestion to get a new air filter, it’s because it’s usually necessary! An internal combustion engine needs oxygen to perform, and a clogged air filter can make the engine work harder, leading to overheating. An overheated engine can cause damage to engine valves, seals, rings, and more.
• Regularly replace the fuel filter. As with the air filter, it is responsible for ensuring the fuel used in your engine is free from pollutants.
• Check fluid levels regularly, including the oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. All of these aid optimal engine performance, and neglecting them can cause premature wear on the engine.

Besides routine maintenance, what else can you do to extend the life of your car’s engine?

• Did you know highway miles are better for your car’s engine than city miles? Running your vehicle for shorter periods of time, such as stop-and-go errands close to your home or office, means the engine is constantly heating up and cooling down. This puts more stress on the engine than a trip that allows the engine to stay at its optimal operating temperature for long periods of time. These days, thankfully, it’s easier than ever to use a drive-through and curbside pickup to run errands. This means you won’t have to constantly shut your car off while zipping around town, allowing the engine to stay at a more consistent temperature.
• Synthetic oil can lubricate your motor’s moving parts better than regular oil. But what’s the difference, and which should you use? Check your owner’s manual to see what your engine was built for. The manual will list the best oil weight you should use for proper flow through your engine. Most regular oil doesn’t come in the weight required for many vehicles, and using conventional oil vs synthetic oil could void your car’s warranty as well as cause excessive wear on your engine.
• Use the right octane fuel for your car. It is designed to perform best with a certain octane, and you shouldn’t use lower or higher ratings. It might save you money when filling up the tank, but it can cost you in the long run.
• You might live on the wild side and see how far you can go on a single tank of gas, especially with the technology we have to tell us exactly how many miles we have left. But, did you know that a low level of fuel in your tank can cause problems for your engine? A full gas tank prevents the build-up of debris, which could eventually be pumped into the engine if you drive on “fumes.” A full tank means nothing but the best fuel is used in the intake process. Auto repair experts recommend driving with no less than a quarter tank of gas.
• Keep tire pressure at its optimum level to assist your vehicle in achieving the best gas mileage. The power generated by the engine can more efficiently turn your tires when they’re in good shape; that includes proper pressure, good treads, and the right size for your vehicle’s needs.
• Cleaning your engine annually can help all the moving parts function better. Just like you wipe down and dust your car’s interior, you should do similarly under the hood. The next time you’re having routine auto repair done, ask about having the engine steam cleaned.
• Avoid revving your engine, or asking too much of it before it’s warmed up. This doesn’t mean you need to let your vehicle idle before driving it; it just means watch your temperature gauge and allow it to move from cold to warm before driving highway speeds.

The best practice for getting the best performance out of your engine is to pay attention to it. Familiarize yourself with the recommended auto repair schedule, and what you need to put into your car. If you have any questions or are in need of auto care, give us a call or pay us a visit, today.