The words "engine rebuild" often sends vehicle owners into a panic. If there are signs that your vehicle is starting to have engine problems, make sure you have an engine service performed by a skilled and certified auto mechanic. Get it checked out before the problems escalate! But, you can help prevent a major engine rebuild by having an engine service on a regular basis as noted in your owner's manual.
To hopefully prevent an engine rebuild or repair, here are four tips to consider:
• Let you car warm up before driving if possible. This will let the oil get into all parts of the engine before driving, especially in cooler temperatures.
• Before turning off the motor, let your car cool down a minute, especially if it is turbo-charged. This allows the oil to circulate and cool down the bearings. If the motor is turned off immediately after hard driving, oil can gum up around the hot bearings and cause problems.
• Have regular oil changes -- Use high quality oil, change it at suggested intervals (3 months or 3000 miles is a safe number) and always maintain the proper level between oil changes.
• Change the timing belt or chain -- Follow the manufacturer's recommended interval listed in your owner's manual.
Need professional advice about engine service? Contact an ASE-certified technician at one of our Excel Auto Repair service centers. We will be happy to answer any of your questions about an engine rebuild. Check our website at
www.excelautoandtire.com for the location closest to you. Our three auto shops are conveniently located in
Eagan, MN,
Spring Lake Park, MN, and
Rochester, MN.
