All car engines experience normal wear and tear due to friction. And while it’s true that some car engines will give you several hundred thousand miles of carefree driving with minimal maintenance, other cars can be riddled with problems from the very day you drove it off the lot. Regardless of how old your car is, basic car maintenance, which includes regular oil changes and air filter replacement, will add years to the life of your engine.

Regular oil changes are the most essential aspect of car maintenance. Failure to change the oil, and the oil filter, at regular intervals will result in excessive wear and tear as the oil becomes increasingly dirtier and loses its lubricity. Dirty oil is sticky and abrasive, and if left unchecked, the dirty oil will cease to lubricate and eventually cause engine failure. Oil changes are best done by an oil change service center, like Jiffy Lube, for example. Reputable oil change service centers often offer free inspections as part of their service, checking your air filters, fluid levels, battery, wipers, tires and lights as well as changing your oil and oil filter.

Replacing your engine air filter is another essential aspect of car maintenance. This filter is designed to prevent dust, debris and other airborne contaminants from entering and causing damage to your engine. Neglecting to change your air filter will cause it to become clogged with dirt, dust and contaminants, significantly reducing air flow into the combustion chambers. Without enough air, your engine will use more gas, run roughly and lose power. You’ll also notice a decrease in gas mileage, and if left unattended, a dirty filter may cause your engine to stop running altogether. Read the rest of this entry »