Things That Are Bad for Your European Engine
Without intending to, there are things you can do to your engine that will damage it. Peak Euro specializes in European automotive care, and we recommend you avoid the list of things below to get more life out of your Audi or Volkswagen’s engine. You love your car, so don’t do anything to hurt it.
Ignoring the Importance of Motor Oil
The quickest way to kill your engine is to ignore the importance of motor oil. Low or no engine oil will seize up the parts and damage the engine beyond repair within a matter of hours or days depending on the oil level. Check your oil regularly to make sure it isn’t low. If it is, have your Audi or VW inspected for an oil leak. It’s also important to use the oil recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. The wrong weight can damage the engine, as can putting too much oil in the engine.
Driving With a Dirty Air Filter
Air is drawn into the engine to keep it cool and for use in the combustion chamber. The air filter works just like your furnace filter at home does. The air being drawn into the engine flows through the filter and it catches dirt and debris that could damage the engine. Driving with a dirty air filter can release debris into the engine. It will also affect your vehicle’s performance, use up excess gasoline, and could even cause your engine to overheat. Change the air filter every 12,000 miles.
Speaking of Overheating
If your Audi or VW is running too hot, set up an appointment ASAP to have the engine and cooling system checked. If you keep driving with an overheating engine, you not only run the risk of severe engine damage, such as a cracked engine block, but also setting the engine on fire or blowing the radiator cap. Seriously, pull over if the temperature gauge is rising above normal and call for a tow truck. If you keep driving, you’ll open yourself up to expensive engine damage.
Ignoring the Check Engine Light
Finally, you might be tempted to ignore the check engine light when it comes on because your European automobile is running just fine. The problem is that it isn’t, actually. The engine control unit will turn on the check engine light if it detects problems in numerous systems, including the exhaust system and the combustion chamber. You might not have any other signs of a problem and, as such, you might continue to drive with carbon monoxide blowing into your cabin, for example, if the exhaust system is leaking.
Our goal here at Peak Euro is to make sure you can always rely on your Audi or VW. We are the best European auto shop in Bend, OR, if you don’t mind us bragging, so give us a call today for an appointment.