When we first learned to drive we were instructed to do certain safety checks before ever entering the vehicle to leave, but we probably didn't listen well; now, listen to these car maintenance tips to preserve the lifespan of your vehicle and keep it rolling through the Northern Virginia streets with ease.
- You are not a race car driver, do not rev your engine upon start-up. Nobody is telling you to start your engine, you are simply going to your office job and you're probably not too excited about it anyway. The added pressure on the engine created when the engine is revved ñ especially when it is cold will add years of wear and tear to your car in just a few moments.
- Take it easy when accelerating. Studies show the most engine wear occurs within the first 20 minutes of operation.
- Shift the vehicle into neutral while stopped at traffic signals, signs or for trains crossing to reduce the wear on the engine.
- The vast majority of wear on the engine results from city driving ñ the short start-and-stop trips, such as when running errands. Reduce the impact of these trips by combining several short trips into one longer trip is better on the vehicle.
- Only purchase fuel from reputable gas stations. For optimal performance only purchase your fuel from gas stations that are equipped with pump filters on every pump. Unfiltered gas makes your car more vulnerable to dirty gasoline which leads to tremendous engine problems.
To ensure your vehicle is operating at its best, schedule a maintenance check with the auto care specialists at Wiygul Automotive Clinic today. Serving Burke, VA, Fairfax Station, VA, Clifton, VA, Fairfax City, VA and Springfield, VA, the experts at Wiygul Automotive Clinic can keep you on the road with excellent customer service and trained technicians.
