Are you tired of frequent and expensive car repairs? Taking care of your car’s engine can prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. With a few simple dos and don’ts, you can extend the life of your car’s engine and save money in the long run. Here are some helpful engine care tips that every car owner should know.

Do Change Your Oil Regularly 🛢️

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates moving parts and protects your engine against corrosion and wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at protecting your engine. That’s why it’s important to change your oil every 5,000 miles or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. Failing to do so can lead to engine damage and costly repairs.

A person changing the oil in a car engine.

Don’t Ignore Your Check Engine Light 🛑

Your car’s check engine light is a warning sign that something is wrong with your engine. Ignoring this warning sign can lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. When your check engine light comes on, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic to diagnose the problem and prevent further damage to your engine.

A close-up of a car dashboard with the check engine light on.

Do Keep Your Coolant System in Good Condition ❄️

Your car’s coolant system helps regulate the temperature of your engine and prevent it from overheating. Overheating can cause serious engine damage and lead to expensive repairs. Make sure your coolant system is always filled to the proper level and check for leaks regularly. If you notice any issues, take your car to a mechanic for repairs.

A mechanic checking the coolant levels in a car engine.

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises 🤫

Strange noises coming from your engine can indicate a serious problem. Grinding, rattling, or knocking sounds can be a sign of engine damage. If you hear any unusual engine noises, take your car to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring strange noises can cause further damage to your engine and result in costly repairs.

A person holding their ear close to a car engine, listening for any strange noises.

Do Use High-Quality Fuel 🔥

Using high-quality fuel can improve the performance and longevity of your car’s engine. Higher quality fuel has fewer impurities, which can reduce engine deposits and improve fuel economy. Make sure you always use fuel recommended by your car’s manufacturer for optimal engine performance and efficiency.

A close-up of a gas pump filling up a car tank with high-quality fuel.

Don’t Forget to Replace Your Air Filter 🌬️

Your car’s air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine and causing damage. Over time, the air filter becomes clogged and less effective at protecting your engine. Make sure to replace your air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. Neglecting to replace your air filter can cause engine damage and result in costly repairs.

A person holding an air filter that needs to be replaced.

By following these dos and don’ts of engine care, you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your car’s engine running smoothly. Remember to regularly change your oil, keep your coolant system in good condition, use high-quality fuel, and replace your air filter when necessary. And most importantly, don’t ignore warning signs from your car’s engine. Taking care of your engine will result in a long-lasting and well-functioning car.

A person driving a car with a well-maintained engine.

And that’s all for now, folks! Thanks for reading and happy car maintenance! 🚘💪