How to Maintain a Car Engine?
2 Answers
Methods for maintaining a car engine: 1. Ensure good crankcase ventilation. Most gasoline engines are equipped with a PCV valve (Positive Crankcase Ventilation), but contaminants from blow-by gases can accumulate around the PCV valve, potentially clogging it. Therefore, it's essential to regularly clean the contaminants around the PCV valve. 2. Regularly change the oil and oil filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will degrade over time. To prevent malfunctions, change the oil periodically based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. 3. Periodically clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, nitrogen oxides, and other substances from the combustion chamber can enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal particles from wear to form sludge. Hence, regular cleaning of the crankcase is necessary to keep the engine internals clean. 4. Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD-SF grade oil based on the additional equipment in the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions. For diesel engines, choose CB-CD grade diesel oil based on mechanical load, ensuring the standard meets or exceeds the manufacturer's requirements. 5. Address engine radiator rust. Rust and scale can restrict coolant flow in the cooling system, reducing heat dissipation and causing engine overheating or even damage. Therefore, clean the radiator periodically to remove rust and scale. 6. Maintain the three filters. The three filters refer to the air filter, oil filter, and fuel filter. They filter air, oil, and fuel in the car engine, protecting the engine and improving its efficiency. 7. Regularly clean the fuel system to control carbon deposit formation, keeping the engine in optimal condition.
I've been driving a family car for many years, and engine maintenance is really a routine matter. The most basic regular oil change is essential. I do it every 5,000 kilometers or six months, replacing it with high-quality oil and a filter to keep the engine internally lubricated and prevent dry friction. The coolant also needs to be checked and topped up to prevent high temperatures from damaging the engine. When driving, I avoid slamming the accelerator or brakes, as smooth acceleration reduces wear and tear. Warming up the engine for a minute or two before setting off provides better protection. If I hear any unusual noises or feel a lack of power, I get the car checked immediately to avoid minor issues turning into costly repairs. I always keep a toolbox in the car, and checking belts and hoses for cracks is also important. Overall, spending a little on these maintenance tasks keeps the engine running smoothly and durably, preventing breakdowns that could cause major delays.
