Preventative Maintenance
If you were to think of your car as a human body, the engine would certainly be the heart. If the heart has issues, the entire body suffers. And like your body, your engine requires regular care and maintenance to ensure trouble-free operation. The last thing you need is your engine overheating or stalling at an intersection. Besides the inconvenience, an engine not functioning correctly is also a serious safety issue! So, what can you do to keep it working properly?
The engine may look like one massive part, but it’s made up of hundreds of components working together to deliver energy and power throughout the vehicle. At Gearhead Automotive Services, we recommend regular maintenance to prevent issues, keep your engine functioning properly, and reduce the need for inconvenient and expensive repairs.
You may not be an automotive technician, but there are some simple things you can do to reduce breakdowns and keep your engine functioning properly:
Keep your engine clean – free of dirt, debris, and grime. Fortunately, the design of your engine keeps most debris from contacting working components. A quick cleaning with a shop vac or careful spraying at the car wash will remove most debris. Air (and cabin) filters can become clogged with leaves, dirt and even the occasional insect over time. However, the replacement of such filters is best left to your friendly, neighbourhood automotive technician.
One of the best things you can do to maintain your engine is to have regular oil changes performed. Doing so will dramatically improve the longevity of your vehicle’s engine. For most modern cars, oil changes are recommended every 5000 to 8000 kilometres. However, if your vehicle’s engine runs with full-synthetic engine oil, up to 15,000 kilometres may be permissible.
Over time, the oil in your engine’s crankcase can become dark (even black) as it collects impurities and eventually loses its viscosity – essentially, its ability to lubricate. If you’re unsure whether an oil change is needed, see the team at Gearhead Automotive Services. With so many moving parts, your engine must remain adequately lubricated. Friction, resulting from poor lubrication, can result in shorter engine life and even engine failure.
All regularly scheduled maintenance must be performed if you’re driving a new vehicle that’s still under warranty. So, in addition to protecting the operation of your car, it’s also necessary to maintain your warranty coverage. Gearhead Automotive can perform all preventative maintenance and inspect for possible warranty work. They can even book the vehicle in for the client at the dealership.
If you notice an engine issue, book an appointment immediately with the team at Gearhead Automotive Services. Ignored, a simple fix could become an expensive issue. Proper care and regular maintenance will generally ensure years of trouble-free operation.
We’re Gearhead Automotive Services – your one-stop Red Deer Mechanic. Find us at 7597 Edgar Industrial Drive. Call us at 403-358-5801 or email info@gearheadauto.com