You’ve finally got that European car of your dreams! Now how do you get the most out of your investment?
European vehicles can often come with higher upfront costs due to their advanced engineering and luxury features. So you’ll want to be sure you’ll be enjoying your new ride for many, many
years.
By extending the life of your European car, you not only save money but also maintain the performance and safety of your vehicle.
Here are some tips to follow to get the most out of your car:
Regular Oil Changes: Oil is the lifeblood of your car so regular oil changes are essential to extending the life of your engine.
It is generally recommended to change the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles but check your car’s owner’s manual in case the manufacturer recommends otherwise.
European cars often require synthetic or semi-synthetic oils, which have several benefits over conventional oil. Synthetic oils are made from higher quality base oils, which allow it to provide
better resistance to oil breakdown and improved fuel mileage. Also synthetic oils perform better in higher and colder temperatures compared to conventional oils. This helps engines start up
easier in the cold and to maintain protection in high heat.
Drive Carefully: Don’t put undue stress on your European car! Consistent gentle driving and avoiding aggressive acceleration and sharp turns can add years to your car.
Most of the wear and tear on engines take place in the first 10 minutes of driving. Experts say this is due to the engine not having reached its highest, normal operating temperature. Don’t rev
your engine to quicken the warming-up process on cold days and don’t accelerate too quickly when you first start to drive.
Use Premium Fuel: European cars typically require premium fuel because their engines are designed to run on higher octane fuel to prevent premature ignition that can damage the engine.
European countries tend to have higher minimum octane requirements for regular gasoline compared to the U.S.
Using a lower octane fuel than recommended by manufacturers can lead to engine knocking, reduced performance, and potentially long-term damage to the engine.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule: By adhering strictly to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can prevent major issues from developing.
Along with regular oil changes, be sure to get your tire rotated regularly. Also be sure to change your air filter when it’s clogged with dirt to help improve gas mileage.
Staying on the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule also can help maintain your vehicle’s warranty.
Maintenance schedules typically follow a 30,000, 60,000, 90,000 mileage-based structure. Be sure to check your owner’s manual to see what is recommended for your vehicle.
Tire Maintenance: Proper tire maintenance can help prevent uneven wear. Driving on underinflated tires can increase tread wear and decrease your gas mileage.
Keep Your Car Clean: Regular washing of your car’s exterior and detailing the inside of it will not only help preserve your European car’s appearance but also its value.
Following these tips can lead to a longer-lasting, better-performing vehicle that retains its value and provides you with an enjoyable driving experience for years to come.
Performance Auto Specialists | European Car Maintenance in Wilmington, NC
Looking for a Wilmington, North Carolina car mechanic who can help you extend the life of your European vehicle? The technicians at Performance Auto Specialists are experts in working on
Audis, BMWs, Jaguars, Mercedes Benzes, Mini Coopers, Porches, Volkswagens, and Volvos. These high-quality cars should only be cared for by experts in European vehicles.
Schedule an appointment today!
