NEW vehicle buyers are discovering an increasing number of advanced engine technologies to choose from, while existing owners are opting to keep their vehicles on the road longer.
In fact, a recent report from DesRosiers Automotive Consultants shows a 20 per cent increase over the past five years in the number of vehicles on the road that are 16 years or older*.
Whether you're looking to protect your new investment, or prolong your old one, mechanics suggest the key is getting back to the basics.
Nine out of 10 Canadian mechanics surveyed by Leger Marketing report the top mistake they see vehicle owners make is only bringing in their vehicle for servicing once a problem arises.
To prevent costly breakdowns, keep up with your maintenance schedule. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended oil change intervals based on the conditions under which you typically drive, such as "normal" or "severe service."
Replace your oil filter with every oil change, and use a high-quality motor oil that meets the specifications recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to help your engine get the protection it needs.
To keep vehicles running better for the long haul, engine health is important as well.
You can help optimize performance, lower emissions and obtain better fuel economy by using a high-quality gasoline which protects critical engine parts from the build-up of "gunk"- carbon deposits which have a porous surface and act as a sponge, absorbing and trapping gasoline on intake valves, and impairing the flow of gasoline through fuel injectors.
The same Leger survey found that 87 per cent of mechanics agree there's a difference between high quality and low quality fuels, with 85 per cent responding that they believe that the top benefit of using a high quality gasoline is optimized engine performance.
Fuels such as the new Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines protect intake valves and fuel injectors from performancerobbing gunk in both conventional and modern engines.
In addition to engine oil, 84% of mechanics say that vehicle owners can extend the life of their vehicle's engine by simply monitoring the other lubricants and fluids in their engine regularly. Check the owner's manual to find information about where fluids are contained, exactly how to check them, the type your vehicle uses and how much should be in each reservoir. If you see drops of fluid under your vehicle, you should be able to identify them by color or consistency. A few small drops are probably not a cause for concern, but if you notice small puddles, be sure to consult your mechanic.
*Source: "Eight auto industry trends to watch for in 2012" The Toronto Star (Jan 6, 2012).
- www.newscanada.com
