Your motor vehicle is an incredible feat of engineering, with a complex combination of engine components working together to propel you down the road. However, just like any intricate machine, regular maintenance is vital to keeping it running efficiently. The expert engine components suppliers at Alert Engine Parts will provide you with valuable tips for maintaining your engine’s health. We will investigate cleaning and replacing important parts and will also explore solutions we offer to help you keep your vehicle roadworthy.
Keeping it Clean: Essential Engine Components to be Maintained
Dirt, grime and debris can accumulate over time, hindering performance and contributing to wear and tear. These are only three useful tips to keep your vehicle’s engine components clean:
1) Regular oil changes
Engine oil lubricates all the moving parts within your motor, reducing friction and heat. Over time, oil breaks down and collects contaminants. Always follow your car’s manufacturer-recommended oil change intervals, typically between 15,000 to 20,000 kilometres. However, when changing the oil, never forget to replace the oil filter, as it traps dirt and debris collected from the old oil.
2) Air filter cleaning
Air filters play a crucial role in preventing dust and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing fuel efficiency and performance. Consult your owner’s manual for cleaning or replacement intervals, which can vary depending on driving conditions, but are typically changed with your oil changing routine.
3) Minor checks and balances
While changing the oil and filters, it is always advisable to check other important facets of your vehicle, for example, fluid levels, oil leaks, cracked or perished pipes and casings and peruse brake pads and tyre pressure.
Replacing Engine Components: Knowing When to Let Go
Certain engine components have a finite lifespan and need to be replaced periodically to maintain optimal performance:
1) Spark plugs
These ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders. Worn spark plugs can cause rough idling, misfires and decreased fuel economy. Replace spark plugs when you change your oil and filters, typically between 15,000 to 20,000 kilometres.
2) Timing belts and chains
These belts or chains synchronise the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring proper valve timing. A broken timing belt or chain can cause catastrophic engine damage. Replace them based on the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, often between 90,000 and 120,000 kilometres.
3) Other vital engine components
There are many items to check on the list for major services when changing the timing belt. Although eye checks can help with smaller services, it is advisable to physically change or lubricate a host of items when performing a major service like regreasing wheel bearings, checking glow lamps (for diesel only), brake and transmission fluid replacement and many more. If you are uncertain, consult a qualified mechanic for guidance.
Alert Engine Parts: Your Partner in Engine Care
At Alert Engine Parts, we understand the importance of preventative maintenance. This is why we offer a huge range of superior-quality aftermarket replacement engine components. Find out why we could be your perfect partner in keeping your engine roadworthy:
- Extensive parts catalogue – we stock an extensive portfolio of engine parts, from oil
filters and spark plugs to timing belts, air filters, pistons, rings, bearings, gaskets and so much more. - Quality assurance – we put quality above all else. We only stock parts from our carefully selected manufacturers, ensuring you receive reliable and durable components for your engine.
- Affordability – maintaining your engine should not break the bank. At Alert Engine Parts, we offer competitive prices on all our parts, making it affordable to keep your car running smoothly.
- Expert Advice – our friendly, knowledgeable staff can answer your questions and guide you towards the right parts for your vehicle’s needs. Whether you are a qualified mechanic or an avid DIYer, we can provide you with valuable advice.
Be a Part of Alert: We Will Get You Where You Are Going
If you are looking for a reliable and affordable alternative to major brands, at Alert Engine Parts, we offer our in-house ARCO range along with many others. These are a selection of superior-quality engine components sourced from internationally renowned suppliers. We have been supplying top-quality engine components for more than 3500 makes and models of vehicles across petrol and diesel applications for more than seven decades.
Since 1946, our commitment to excellence has gone far beyond meticulously sourcing engine components, parts and other vehicle accessories. We invest heavily in continuously training our friendly, knowledgeable staff to ensure you receive expert advice alongside the perfect parts for your vehicle, at competitive prices. With 19 conveniently located branches in southern Africa, we at Alert Engine Parts will never let you down. Contact us today to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.