I know that maintenance is one of the least exciting things to do, but it can save you a lot of bucks that you’d have to spend on repairs. So, it’s always better to stay one step ahead of things than have to deal with everything later. Trust me – the time, energy, and money that you’ll waste trying to fix something that’s broken/malfunctioning won’t be worth it.
Today, I want to talk to you about the 101 of engine maintenance. That’s right: the focus will be mostly on the motor, not the suspension, or the tires. I’ve been an off-roader for as long as I can remember. And in my experience, new plugs, an air intake kit, and a decent coolant can greatly increase a Jeep engine’s lifespan. Read on to learn more!
New Spark Plugs Can Go a Long Way
Did you know that old, worn-out spark plugs can cause a misfire? Yes, they can, and you’ll also experience poor fuel economy and less-than-ideal engine performance. A brand-new set will introduce instant changes and bring the motor back to life. The Best Spark Plugs for Jeep fit a wide range of model years, come backed by a generous warranty, and are very easy to install. Plus, they provide a guaranteed boost in mileage.
The most important thing to check before making an order is the number of cylinders in your engine. If it’s a V8, the package should include eight spark plugs – one for each cylinder. Now, most plug sets are factory-gapped to be a perfect fit, but, over time, they loosen up, so to speak. Thus, you might have to do manual adjustments. Also, make sure they’re protected against rust and are crafted from a durable material.
Iridium is incredibly long-lasting (up to 75K miles), while platinum is the close second (55-70K miles). Copper alloy lasts for 20K but is considerably cheaper. So, if the engine is misfiring regularly and doesn’t perform as it used to, those are clear signs of bad spark plugs. Don’t hesitate to get new ones, as a struggling engine won’t serve for very long.
An Air Kit Will Keep the Engine Cool
And what benefits will a Cold Air Intake For Jeep introduce, you might ask? It can actually kill two rabbits with one shot. What I mean by that is an aftermarket air intake kit has two big pros. First of all, it takes air filtration/flow to the next level. That keeps the engine from overheating and causing you a headache. Secondly, thanks to the included filter, all the contaminants (pollen, dust, tiny rocks, and other foreign objects) will be kept at bay.
So, yes, along with new plugs, a replacement cold air intake will be money well spent. Here’s what I check first: the filter should last for 50K miles, or, better yet, 100K. As for the layers, it’s gotta have at least three (I usually go with five, as that provides the best protection). Moving on to the tube: the larger the surface area, the better. And if it’s got powder coating against rusting, that will be an even better deal.
Invest in a Premium Coolant
Sadly, most drivers don’t give coolant the credit it deserves. However, with the Best Coolant for Jeep, you’ll be able to avoid steep repair checks. Also known as the antifreeze this liquid substance can protect the engine both from freezing and overheating, which makes it a universal product. Boiling over and freezing can, indeed, lead to catastrophic consequences for the engine.
No matter where you live (in the far north, or somewhere with a hot and humid climate) a coolant will be worth the price. Protection against hard water deposits, enhanced compatibility (with different engines and vehicles), and rust resistance – these are the most important factors. By the way, some coolants can be used not only with gasoline but also with diesel engines.
That’s pretty much it: you won’t have to scroll through hundreds of bottles and canisters to find the one that suits you best. This product is available for cheap and won’t leave your wallet empty. Just remember to keep an eye on the antifreeze levels so that you never run out of it. On average, a change will be due every 30-60K miles.
More Things to Consider
Alright, now that we’re checked out the most critical stuff, I want you to take a quick look at extra things that are worth considering:
Don’t forget about Routine Oil Change. These days, decent-quality oil can last for up to 7K miles, which is pretty great. After that, rust, corrosion, and sludge will take over and negatively affect the engine. Premium lubrication is available at a very reasonable price, so, you might want to put oil change on your “bucket list”.
To keep a detailed record of each maintenance activity, consider using Google Sheets. This tool allows you to create customizable spreadsheets where you can log dates, services performed, parts replaced, and costs, helping you maintain an organized history of your vehicle’s upkeep.
Avoid Cheap Gas. We all want to save a buck or two on fuel, but low-quality gasoline won’t do the engine much good. The owner’s manual of your Jeep should clearly specify exactly what kind of gas must be used. True, it will probably not be very affordable, but in the long run, you’ll benefit from it. Bad fuel can rob you of HP, torque, MPG, and even slow down the acceleration. The effect won’t be at all dramatic, though.
Buy New Windshield Wipers. Yes, I know I said in the beginning that this guide is all about engine maintenance, but wipers are very important. The experts recommend replacing them twice a year. You could go with repairs, but it would be best to buy a new set. The average precipitation in the States is rather high, and without proper wipers, you might end up in an accident on the road. The good news is – the installation process won’t take more than 20 minutes.
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