Proper car engine maintenance is essential if you want your vehicle to last for years without costly breakdowns. The engine is the heart of your car, and correct care can save you thousands of euros in repairs. Whether you drive a diesel, petrol, or hybrid vehicle, simple mistakes like delayed oil changes or engine overheating can lead to catastrophic damage. In this article, we share practical, proven car engine maintenance rules and explain why professionally rebuilt engines are an excellent and often smarter alternative to brand-new ones. Planning to buy a new or rebuilt engine? Check out our current offers on the website!
Regular Car Engine Maintenance – The Key to Engine Longevity
- Oil Changes: Change engine oil every 10,000–15,000 km (or according to the manufacturer’s Longlife interval, but never exceed it). Always use the exact specification recommended by the manufacturer (e.g., 5W-30, 0W-20, etc.). Wrong or old oil destroys bearings, pistons, and turbochargers in record time. For more information on high-quality engine oils and vehicle lubrication products, see the official Liqui Moly motor oils and lubricants guide.
- Cooling System: Regularly check coolant level and condition. Overheating is one of the main causes of cracked cylinder heads and warped blocks – a repair that often costs more than the car itself.
- Timing Belts/Chains and Accessory Belts: Replace them strictly according to the service schedule. A snapped timing belt or chain on an interference engine almost always means a completely destroyed engine.
Most Common Driving Mistakes That Kill Car Engines
- Aggressive Driving on a Cold Engine: Give the engine at least 1–2 minutes to warm up (especially in winter) so oil can reach all parts. Immediate full throttle destroys bearings and turbochargers.
- Poor Quality Fuel: Especially dangerous for diesel engines – low-quality diesel with high sulfur or biodiesel content quickly clogs injectors and damages the high-pressure pump (repair cost often €2,000–€5,000).
- Ignoring Unusual Noises: Any knocking, rattling, or metallic sounds are a serious warning. Continuing to drive usually turns a €300–€800 repair into a €4,000+ engine replacement.
Rebuilt Engines vs. Brand New – Which to Choose?
- Advantages of Professionally Rebuilt Engines: Up to 70% cheaper than a new original engine – Environmentally friendly (less mining and manufacturing) – Every part is inspected, measured, and replaced if necessary – Full test run on an engine dyno + warranty (we offer 12–24 months) – In most cases, performs and lasts exactly like a new one
- When to Choose a Brand-New Engine? Only if the car is nearly new, under factory warranty, or you specifically want original manufacturer packaging. In 95% of cases (especially vehicles over 5–7 years old), a high-quality rebuilt engine is the smarter and more economical choice.
Car Engine Maintenance Conclusion and Replacement Options
By following these simple car engine maintenance rules, your engine will easily last 100,000–200,000+ km without major problems. If you’re already facing engine issues or planning a replacement, we offer both brand-new and professionally rebuilt engines at the best prices in the market – all tested and with a warranty. Contact us for a free consultation and current offers. More practical car maintenance articles coming soon!