Keeping your engine in top shape is essential for your vehicle’s reliability, efficiency, and longevity. Routine maintenance and good driving habits can help prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Here are five tips to help you maintain a healthy engine. Change the Oil and Filter Regularly Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, keeping its moving parts lubricated and reducing the risk of overheating. As the miles add up, engine oil breaks down and collects dirt, reducing its effectiveness. Neglecting oil changes can lead to excessive wear, overheating, and even engine failure. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule and always replace the oil filter at the same time. Using high-quality oil that meets your engine’s specifications will further improve performance. Check and Replace the Air Filter Your engine needs a proper mix of air and fuel for efficient combustion. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel-efficiency. Inspect your air filter regularly and replace it as needed—typically every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. A clean air filter helps maintain optimal engine performance and fuel-economy. Keep an Eye on the Cooling System Your engine generates a lot of heat, and the cooling system plays a vital role in preventing overheating. Make sure your coolant levels are adequate and that your radiator, water pump, and thermostat are in good working order. Overheating can cause serious damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. Flushing the coolant system at recommended intervals will help prevent buildup that can block proper coolant flow. Use High-Quality Fuel and Keep the Fuel System Clean The quality of fuel you put into your car directly impacts engine performance. Using low-quality or contaminated fuel can lead to carbon buildup and reduced efficiency. Stick to high-quality fuel from reputable gas stations. Also, replacing the fuel filter at regular intervals will help ensure that dirt and debris don’t reach the engine. Pay Attention to Warning Signs Ignoring warning lights or unusual noises can lead to serious engine damage. If your check engine light comes on, have the issue diagnosed as soon as possible. Strange noises, rough idling, loss of power, and discolored/excessive exhaust smoke can indicate underlying problems. Addressing minor issues early can help prevent more expensive repairs and keep your engine running smoothly. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Surprise, AZ For car care in Surprise, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Edmunds Automotive Repair at  623-259-5969  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

The check engine light is one of the most dreaded warnings for drivers. While it can indicate a minor issue, it could also signal a serious problem that requires immediate attention. The important thing is that you visit the shop for diagnostics before the issue gets the chance to worsen. At Edmunds Automotive Repair, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Surprise, AZ area. Here are five common check engine light triggers. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the most frequent reasons for the check engine light is a faulty oxygen sensor. This sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in your car’s exhaust and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture for optimal performance. A malfunctioning sensor can cause poor fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. If left unchecked, it can also cause problems with other components like the catalytic converter. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is a relatively simple fix but should be addressed quickly. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful substances. A malfunctioning catalytic converter can lead to decreased engine performance and increased emissions. Failing Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils are vital components of your car’s ignition system. Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine, while ignition coils generate the necessary spark. If these components fail, the engine may misfire, resulting in rough idling, reduced performance, and the illumination of the check engine light. Replacing spark plugs and ignition coils at recommended intervals is key to avoiding these issues. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap It might seem surprising, but a loose or damaged gas cap can trigger the check engine light. The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it isn’t properly sealed, fuel might evaporate before your engine gets the chance to run on it. Mass Airflow Sensor Issues The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the correct air-fuel mixture. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can cause poor fuel-economy, rough idling, and even stalling. Check Engine Light Diagnostics & Repair in Surprise, AZ When you need check engine light repair in Surprise, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Edmunds Automotive Repair at  623-259-5969  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!