Engine Maintenance Tips

As with many things in life, if you care for your vehicle, it will care for you. Here are some helpful engine maintenance tips to help get the most life and best performance out of your vehicle.

Keep it Greasy

Your really can't overemphasize the importance of oil to your engine's health. It helps keep your engine both cool and properly lubricated. Check your engine oil often, especially in an older vehicle as they have a tendency to burn oil. Also, maintain a regular oil change interval. Old oil loses its ability to do its job. It can even damage the engine and shorten its life.

Regular Inspections

You don't have to be a certified mechanic to do a cursory engine inspection. Here are some things to look for:

• Leaks underneath the vehicle
• Low fluid levels (brake fluid, power steering fluid, etc.)
• Damaged or otherwise frayed belts

Top off any fluids that need it. If you notice that your fluids are consistently low, you may want to seek help from a professional.

Keep It Cool

You cooling system should be monitored often. That means keeping an eye on the radiator fluid level. It also means inspecting hoses from time to time.

See the Light

Your Check Engine Light is there for a reason. It's designed to make you, and your mechanic, aware of potential issues before they become catastrophic. That means there probably aren't any symptoms, at least not initially. But that doesn't mean you should ignore the light!

Take It Easy

Most of us do not drive performance vehicles. Your vehicle's engine was probably not designed to be driven like you are at the track. Doing so can tax your engine and potentially shorten its life, so go easy on the gas and brakes while driving your daily commute!

If your check engine light comes on, bring it in to Phil Wright Toyota today! We'll take a look at it and see what's going on with your vehicle! Remember, we service more than just Toyotas!