The Best Action to Take When it Comes to Great Engine Care

The Top Three Engine Maintenance Routines

Just like the employees at Paulus Farm in Mechanicsburg are vigilant when it comes to caring for their horses, so too should we be vigilant when it comes to caring for “horsepower”: our cars and trucks. Because, owning a vehicle comes with the responsibility of maintaining it to ensure a long life and steady reliability. And t he best course of action to ensure that is regular engine maintenance. Because, it’s crucial for preventing breakdowns and costly repairs, and keeping your vehicle running smoothly. So in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Mechanicsburg reveal the top three best engine maintenance routines that will ensure the health of your vehicle and save you time and money.

1. Regular Oil Changes

Why It’s Important: Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Because, it lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate engine temperature. Yet, over time, engine oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and combustion by-products. And this will lead to increased wear and tear on your engine.

How to Do It:

• • Frequency: Typically, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Or Google: oil change near me to call with your local Meineke in Mechanicsburg for the manufacturer’s recommendation.
  • Type of Oil: Use the type and grade of oil specified by your vehicle manufacturer.
  • DIY or Professional: You can change the oil yourself if you’re comfortable with the process. Or take it to the professional mechanics at Meineke in Mechanicsburg.

Benefits:

• • Improved engine performance
  • Increased fuel efficiency
  • Extended engine life

2. Replacing Air Filters

Why It’s Important: Your engine’s air filter prevents dirt, dust, and debris from entering the engine. But, a clean air filter ensures that your engine gets the optimal amount of clean air, which is necessary for efficient combustion.

How to Do It:

• • Frequency: Check your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but replace it if it looks dirty or clogged.
  • Type of Filter: Use the type recommended in your vehicle’s owner manual.
  • DIY or Professional: Replacing an air filter is usually straightforward and can be done at home with basic tools. But, Meineke in Mechanicsburg is here to help when you need it.

Benefits:

• • Improved engine performance
  • Enhanced fuel economy
  • Prolonged engine life

3. Maintaining the Cooling System

Why It’s Important: The cooling system prevents your engine from overheating by circulating coolant through the engine and radiator. Yet, over time, coolant can become contaminated or deplete. And this can lead to overheating and engine damage.

How to Do It:

• • Frequency: Check your coolant level regularly (every month or so) and top it off if necessary. And, have the Meineke in Mechanicsburg flush and replace the coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer).
  • Type of Coolant: Use the coolant type specified in your owner’s manual.
  • DIY or Professional: Topping off coolant can be done by most car owners, but flushing the system is often best left to professionals at Meineke in Mechanicsburg due to the need for proper disposal of old coolant.

Benefits:

• • Prevents engine overheating
  • Protects against engine corrosion
  • Ensures efficient engine performance

Keep Your “horsepower” at it’s Best

Maintaining your car or truck‘s engine is essential for its reliability and long life. And regular oil changes, replacing air filters, and maintaining the cooling system are three of the most important tasks you can perform. Plus, remember that the ASE certified experts at Meineke in Mechanicsburg are always available for the tasks you’re not comfortable performing yourself.

If the Meineke in Mechanicsburg is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 14 car repair centers is South Central Pennsylvania: