Perhaps you have an emissions test (smog test) coming up to renew your older car's registration. Maybe you want to do your part to minimize harmful emissions in the environment. Or, you would simply like to keep your car healthy for many years to come. All of these are great reasons to take care of your vehicle's emissions system.
The emissions/exhaust system is there to expel toxic gases away from your engine and burn off dangerous fumes before they are released out of the tailpipe. It also plays a significant part in fuel economy. A poor emissions system and/or damaged exhaust components can severely impact your vehicle's average miles per gallon (MPG). Here are 5 tips you can follow for a healthier emissions system:
1. Take Care of Regular Maintenance
Getting regular oil changes is one way to keep your engine and emissions system in good shape. Rotating tires and keep them at proper air pressures will also help, along with checking fluids and taking care of other routine maintenance like brake services, fuel system services and transmission services. These will all positively impact the performance and health of your car.
2. Let Your Car Warm Up
Engines in newer vehicles are generally designed to warm up quickly and/or run cold, but it never hurts to let your engine idle a little bit before taking off in the morning. It definitely helps to let an older vehicle's engine warm up before driving, especially in the winter months. It puts less stress on the engine and and healthy engine usually helps keep the emissions system in better condition.
3. Use a Fuel Additives
There are some great fuel additives available that can help keep your fuel system free of contaminants and ensure that cleaner fuel is running through your engine. An additive may help with fuel efficiency while also benefiting your exhaust system.
4. Watch the Check Engine Light
If your check engine light or any other warning light is on, do not wait to have your vehicle looked at by a professional mechanic. Determine the source of the problem and get it resolved. It may just be a bad oxygen sensor, or it could be something more serious. The exhaust system is one of the most common causes of the check engine light coming on, so don't wait too long to deal with it.
5. Get Pre-Tested
If you have a smog/emissions test coming up and aren't sure your vehicle will pass, you can get it pre-tested at some automotive shops. We offer specialty emissions testing and repairs here at Fox Run Auto. We know what the DMV is looking for and how to pass the tests. If problems are found during the pre-test and inspection, we can recommend and make the necessary repairs to ensure you get the green light for your registration.
If you are in Northern Delaware and think you might have emissions or exhaust system problems with your vehicle, call Fox Run Auto today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.