Top Maintenance Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Engine

Top Maintenance Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Engine: How to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly with Jefferson Auto Service

Maintaining your engine is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. At Jefferson Auto Service, we’ve seen countless engines that suffered major damage due to simple maintenance oversights. Whether you’re in Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, or Washington Twp, MI, knowing how to care for your engine can save you thousands in repair costs and ensure your car stays reliable for years to come.

In this article, we’ll discuss the most common maintenance mistakes that could ruin your engine and share expert advice to help you avoid them. Let’s dive into the top pitfalls and how to keep your engine in peak condition.

1. Skipping Regular Oil Changes

One of the most common yet detrimental maintenance mistakes is skipping oil changes. Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps dissipate heat. When oil becomes dirty or depleted, it can’t do its job effectively, leading to increased wear and tear. Over time, this can result in engine overheating or complete failure.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil? At Jefferson Auto Service, we recommend following your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines, usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Regular oil changes are crucial to maintaining your engine’s health, especially when navigating the busy roads of Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, and Washington Twp, MI.

Pro Tip: Always use high-quality oil and filters to ensure optimal performance. Our technicians can help you choose the right oil for your vehicle.

2. Neglecting Coolant System Maintenance

Coolant prevents your engine from overheating, but it also keeps internal parts lubricated and free from corrosion. Neglecting coolant system maintenance can cause your engine to overheat, warp cylinder heads, or crack the engine block.

Signs Your Coolant Needs Attention:

• Temperature gauge running hot
• Visible leaks or puddles under the car
• Sweet or burning smell from the engine

Our Advice: At Jefferson Auto Service, we recommend checking coolant levels regularly and flushing the system every 30,000 miles or as recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

3. Ignoring the Check Engine Light

It’s easy to brush off the check engine light, especially when your car seems to be running fine. However, this warning signal often indicates underlying issues that could worsen over time. From faulty sensors to critical engine malfunctions, ignoring the light can result in costly repairs down the road.

What to Do When the Light Comes On: Visit one of our locations in Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, or Washington Twp, MI, for a thorough diagnostic check. Our state-of-the-art equipment can pinpoint the problem quickly, allowing us to address minor issues before they escalate.

4. Using the Wrong Type of Oil

Not all engine oils are created equal. Using the wrong viscosity or grade can result in poor lubrication, increased friction, and overheating. Always consult your owner’s manual or talk to our experts at Jefferson Auto Service for guidance on the correct oil for your engine.

Why Quality Matters: Cheap or substandard oil can break down faster, leaving your engine vulnerable to damage. At Jefferson Auto Service, we only use top-quality oils that meet your vehicle’s specifications.

5. Failing to Replace Air and Fuel Filters

Your car’s air and fuel filters keep contaminants out of the engine. Clogged filters restrict airflow and fuel delivery, reducing efficiency and causing your engine to work harder than necessary.

When to Replace Filters:

• Air Filter: Every 12,000 to 15,000 miles
• Fuel Filter: Every 30,000 miles or as recommended

Routine filter replacements at Jefferson Auto Service can help maintain optimal engine performance and fuel economy.

6. Driving with Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid

Your transmission fluid plays a vital role in keeping gears shifting smoothly. Low or dirty fluid can cause transmission failure, leaving you stranded. Regular checks and fluid replacements are essential, especially for those who frequently drive through Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, and Washington Twp, MI.

Warning Signs:

• Delayed or rough shifting
• Unusual noises from the transmission
• Transmission slipping or surging

Our Recommendation: Schedule a transmission fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles to ensure peak performance.

7. Overlooking Timing Belt and Chain Replacement

The timing belt or chain synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. If it fails, it can cause catastrophic engine damage.

When to Replace:

• Timing Belt: Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
• Timing Chain: Inspect regularly for wear

If you’re unsure about your belt or chain’s condition, bring your vehicle to Jefferson Auto Service, where our skilled technicians can perform a comprehensive inspection.

8. Failing to Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

While it may not seem directly related to engine health, under-inflated tires force your engine to work harder to maintain speed and can impact fuel efficiency. Regular tire pressure checks at our Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, or Washington Twp locations can extend both tire life and engine performance.

Take Preventive Action with Jefferson Auto Service

Your engine’s longevity largely depends on consistent, high-quality maintenance. At Jefferson Auto Service, we’re committed to helping our customers in Clinton Twp, Harrison Twp, and Washington Twp, MI, keep their vehicles running smoothly. From oil changes to coolant system maintenance, we’re your trusted partner in automotive care.



Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major headache. Visit Jefferson Auto Service today to protect your engine and maintain peak performance. Schedule an appointment online or call us to learn more about our comprehensive maintenance services.