How to Maintain an Engine?
4 Answers
Automobile engine maintenance methods are as follows: 1. Use high-quality engine oil: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves functions such as lubrication, cleaning, cooling, sealing, and reducing friction in the engine. Only by using qualified lubricating oil can the wear of engine components be reduced, thereby extending the engine's lifespan. Therefore, it is important to regularly top up with high-quality engine oil and avoid using substandard products or allowing the engine to run low on oil. 2. Use qualified coolant (antifreeze): The automobile engine relies on the radiator to dissipate heat, which is crucial. Otherwise, the engine may overheat, causing severe damage. Ensure the coolant level in the radiator is maintained within the normal range and use high-quality coolant. Especially in winter, select an appropriate coolant based on the ambient temperature. As part of regular maintenance, the engine antifreeze should be replaced annually. 3. Regularly clean radiator scale: Rust and scale buildup in the engine radiator are common issues. These deposits can restrict coolant flow in the cooling system, reducing heat dissipation efficiency and leading to engine overheating or even damage. During routine maintenance, choose a coolant with the right ratio based on specific conditions. When adding coolant, ensure the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. 4. Regularly remove carbon deposits: Carbon buildup is inevitable during fuel combustion in a car. Excessive carbon deposits can cause issues such as difficulty starting, unstable idling, poor acceleration, backfiring during sudden acceleration, excessive exhaust emissions, and increased fuel consumption. These negatively impact the engine. To prevent carbon buildup, adopt good driving habits such as driving at high speeds occasionally, increasing shift RPM appropriately, avoiding prolonged idling, and using clean gasoline. If carbon deposits are severe, take the car to a repair shop for cleaning. 5. Replace the "three filters" on time: The three filters refer to the air filter, oil filter, and fuel filter. These filters protect the engine by filtering air, oil, and fuel, thereby improving engine efficiency. To keep the engine in optimal condition, replace the filter elements at scheduled intervals or when they become dirty. 6. Maintain reasonable RPM: During normal driving, maintaining a reasonable RPM ensures smooth engine operation. However, prolonged driving at low gear with high RPM or high gear with low RPM can overload the engine, leading to increased fuel consumption and potential engine damage. Therefore, match the RPM with the gear appropriately, apply the throttle gently, and avoid sudden acceleration.
I believe the key to engine maintenance lies in daily habits. Don't rush to step on the accelerator during cold starts - let the oil circulate for half a minute before moving off. Never cut corners when changing engine oil; I typically replace it every 8,000 kilometers with full synthetic oil while also installing a new oil filter. Don't underestimate the air filter - a dirty one reduces engine efficiency, so I replace mine every other maintenance session. Checking the coolant level is crucial, and remember to regularly clean dust from the radiator fins. Additionally, frequent short trips can cause carbon buildup, so an occasional highway run helps clear deposits. Always refuel at reputable, major-brand gas stations to avoid damaging fuel injectors with poor-quality fuel.
Regular maintenance is crucial for engine health. I make sure to change the engine oil and oil filter on time, especially when driving frequently in congested urban traffic – it should be done every 5,000 kilometers. The air filter must be replaced every two maintenance intervals to ensure clean air intake for the engine. I've also developed the habit of checking the coolant, making sure its concentration is appropriate for both winter and summer. Spark plugs should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers; otherwise, reduced ignition efficiency will increase fuel consumption. If the engine revs high during startup, it could be a sign of severe carbon buildup – that's when fuel additives come in handy. Cleaning engine bay dust during regular car washes also helps with heat dissipation.
Many people overlook details that can harm the engine. For example, stomping on the accelerator when the engine is cold can increase wear on the pistons and cylinder walls. Using low-octane gasoline may cause knocking and damage the cylinders. Not changing the oil filter for a long time can lead to sludge clogging the oil passages. I check the exhaust color; blue smoke indicates oil burning and requires immediate repair. A loose belt can slip and affect the water pump, so I always have the mechanic check it during maintenance. In summer, avoid turning off the engine immediately after parking, especially for turbocharged cars, which need to idle to cool down. Also, switch to external circulation before turning off the AC after short trips to prevent mold growth and contamination of the intake system.
