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If you have a busy schedule, it's probably challenging to find the time for routine auto care. However, engine maintenance should never be neglected. This part is the heart of the vehicle, and keeping it functional will ensure your vehicle runs smoothly for miles. Here are a few tips to help you care for it.

How to Take Care of Your Engine

1. Change the Oil Regularly

Motor oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts so that they won't overheat from excessive friction. The fluid will degrade and become inefficient over time, so replenishing it regularly will deter permanent engine damage.

Have the oil changed by an auto care technician every three months or 3,000 miles. However, this general time frame can vary, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

2. Keep It from Overheating

The cooling system includes the radiator, thermostat, water pump, and coolant, which work together to ensure the engine operates within acceptable temperatures. Overheating seizes the parts and leads to irreversible engine damage, so always monitor the temperature reading and coolant level.

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If the engine is hot, there may be a coolant leak, damaged hose, or another pressing issue. Since there are several possibilities, have an auto care technician diagnose the malfunction and address it immediately.

3. Check the Air Filter

The air filter traps contaminants, like dust and road debris, to prevent them from entering the engine. Change the air filter at intervals indicated in your owner’s manual or more frequently if you drive on dusty or unpaved roads.

This is because the screen clogs with dirt and grime over time, reducing the cooling airflow around the engine. The filter can also tear, which will let the particles contaminate the engine.

4. Replace the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter catches dirt, sediment, and other particles in the gas that may be damaging to the engine. Like the air filter, this part also needs regular replacement to maintain the engine’s performance.

If the particles accumulate in the fuel, the engine will overwork itself to burn it. Let an auto care professional replace the filter if yours is difficult to access.

 

If you want help caring for your vehicle's engine, turn to Professional Automotive in Anchorage, AK. These ASE®-certified mechanics have provided reliable car repairs and routine maintenance services for over 45 years. View their full list of services online, or call (907) 562-2471 to schedule an appointment.

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