Today’s vehicles sometimes give us a false sense of security when it comes to maintenance.
Manufacturers and oil companies consistently advertise longer periods between services. The problem is over time this allows sludge and carbon to build up inside your engine. Expensive engine repairs often are the result.
Sludge forms through heat and friction inside the engine assembly. This can interfere with how oil flows through the engine. Eventually, oil flow will subside enough and cause engine failure. Changing your oil every 3,000 miles will avoid a dangerous sludge situation.
We also highly recommend using an oil system cleaner annually to further reduce any buildups which may occur. Conventional oil is all that is required in your vehicle unless the manufacturer mandates a full synthetic. We also recommend using high mileage oil once your vehicle surpasses 60,000 miles. High mileage oil will help keep seals lubricated and expanded in your engine to help prevent oil leaks.
Carbon is a natural byproduct of gasoline detonation. As the fuel burns inside your engine, it will leave carbon residue in the throttle body, air intake, valve train and inside the cylinders. Over time, this buildup can cause valve issues. In extreme cases, piston rings can seize. These deposits also affect engine performance and emissions. Using fuels containing detergents will reduce these deposits but not eliminate them.
We recommend having your fuel system cleaned every 30,000 miles if you are using a top tier fuel, and every 15,000 miles if you regularly use lower quality fuels. Quality is based on how clean the fuel burns rather than the octane rating of the fuel. Using a high-octane fuel is not necessary unless dictated by the manufacturer.
H and I Automotive can provide you with all your preventive maintenance needs, as well as perform repairs on your vehicle when necessary. We employ two Automotive Service Excellence certified master technicians, and carry all the proper fluids and filters to keep your vehicle in top running condition.
For more car care tips, please call us at (480) 985-9279, or visit our website at www.handiautomotive.com. H and I Automotive is located at 5338 E. Main St., Suite 4. Please see our ad on page 21 in this edition of Up Close.