At Jake's Auto Garage in Harper, we know that the difference between a vehicle that runs for 80,000 miles and a vehicle that makes it to 400,000 miles depends on one thing; maintenance. Here are a few tips to avoid some of the most notorious vehicle killers out there.
Oil Changes - Oil changes are at the top of the list. You know you’re supposed to have it changed regularly, but it really can’t be stressed enough how important proper oil maintenance is. Old, dirty oil breaks down, builds up, clogs passageways, and destroys an engine from the inside out. It may take years, or it might happen all of a sudden, but neglected oil will definitely ruin your engine.
Rust - Depending on where you live, rust can ruin a vehicle in short order. Not only does it look bad, but it weakens structural points underneath your vehicle, ruins parts, makes bolts impossible to remove, etc. Rust isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it’s a safety hazard and an expensive problem. Do your best to keep your paint and undercoating in good shape and wash your vehicle after it has been exposed to salt.
Head Gasket - Head gaskets eventually blow. While it isn’t ideal, a blown head gasket isn’t necessarily a huge deal, as long as it’s dealt with immediately. If you notice milky oil, have your car inspected for head gasket leaks. Water in the oil is obviously a big problem, and if neglected will destroy an engine. Deal with a blown head gasket immediately and keep your engine safe.
Timing Belts - Many cars have Interference Engines, which means the valves can come into contact with the pistons if the timing isn’t correct. If your timing belt snaps, it could instantly ruin your engine. Have your timing belt replaced at the intervals recommended by your manufacturer.
Transmission - If your transmission goes out, it might cost more than your vehicle is worth to replace it. Maintain your transmission correctly and have any issues with it fixed immediately to keep it in good working order. Transmission issues escalate quickly; don’t wait until it’s too late.
Cooling System - An engine can be ruined in a matter of minutes if it overheats. Maintaining the correct coolant level along with regular coolant flushes, proper water pump replacement, a good thermostat, and the knowledge to shut your engine off immediately if it begins to run hot will save you from a world of trouble as a result of overheating issues. Keep your cooling system in good shape, and never ignore the temperature gauge or warning light.
For all your repair and maintenance needs, trust the expert mechanics at Jake's Auto Garage. Our professional technicians have the knowledge, equipment, and ability to keep your car, truck, or SUV on the road for years to come. No matter how big or small the job, from brake pad replacement to internal engine repair, Jake's Auto Garage has you covered. Call or drop by any time.
