Late Model Vehicle Owner? Keep Your Engine Purring With These Easy Tips

Vehicle ownership is different than it was just a few short decades ago. Instead of taking the car in for an oil change every three thousand miles, today's cars are designed to safely drive more than twice that amount before needing this type of service. In fact, if your late-model vehicle utilizes one of the newer, longer-lasting synthetic oils, you may not need to change the oil until you have driven as much as fifteen thousand miles.

In addition to oil changes, newer vehicles also require less frequent spark plug changes and engine tuneups. But even though less servicing is needed for the engines of late-model cars, owners who want to keep them running their best should still take the time to learn about some potential engine problems and how to avoid them. 

Timing Belt Trouble

Modern cars and sport utility vehicles have gotten smaller and lighter as manufacturers work to meet fuel efficiency standards. In addition to the reduction in body size, the engines in these vehicles have also been downsized. Many of these smaller cars are now made with smaller displacement engines that utilize a rubber timing belt, instead of the longer-lasting timing chain found in larger engines. 

When a car's timing belt breaks, it will not start or run. This is why most manufacturers will include recommendations in the owner's manual for when owners should have the timing belt replaced to avoid a sudden failure.

While a timing belt can break without warning, there are some clues that it is about to break that drivers can learn to recognize. These include:

• a ticking noise emanating from the engine when it is running
• failure of the engine to turn over when attempting to start the car. 
• the development of an oil leak from the timing belt cover
• an engine that begins to misfire when running

Since timing belt failure can cause serious engine damage to surrounding components, drivers who notice any of the signs listed above should always have the car checked by a certified engine service professional as soon as possible. 

Dashboard messages 

Another benefit of driving a late-model vehicle is their built-in alert system that lets the driver know something is amiss. From low-operating fluids and tire pressures to messages meant to forewarn about a developing engine issue that could be serious, instrument panels now offer drivers a chance to ward off some serious repair issues.

To take advantage of this helpful information, drivers should make it a point to check their instrument panel each day for these warning symbols and messages and immediately take their car in for service, when indicated. Drivers who want to learn what a particular message is can refer to their owner's manual or contact their engine services professional for more information. 

Check out a website like http://59autorepair.com/ for more information and assistance.