How to Improve Car's Fuel Efficiency: Practical 10 Tips And Techniques

 Overview

In today's world, where environmental concerns and rising fuel costs are major issues and our forefront of our minds, improving your car's fuel efficiency can benefit both you and the planet. By adopting some practical tips and techniques, you can significantly reduce your fuel consumption and emissions. Here are some actionable steps that you can take to help you improve your car's fuel efficiency, save your money, and reduce your carbon footprint.

Here Are Some Points We will be discussing In This Blog

• Vehicle Maintenance 
• Eco-Friendly Driving Style
• Fuel Quality
• Grade Of Engine Oil
• Weight Load
• Tire Pressure
• Tire Size
• Aerodynamics
• Role of Idle Stop
• Role of Cruise Control
• Role of Car Transmission

Let's Start With The Vehicle Maintenance

1. Air Filter

Many people believe that air filters only prevent engine oil from external dirt and particles, but this is wrong. Every part of a car has its main role in its performance. Now come to its role in car fuel efficiency.

Basically, an air filter ensures that only clean air enters the engine's combustion chamber. A clean air filter allows for proper air-flow mixture and optimal air-to-fuel ratio. When it is clogged it leads to an imbalance in the car's fuel ratio. Results in reducing car fuel efficiency and performance.

It is recommended to clean it from the air pressure blower regularly (Once a month or depending on your car usage per day or on the environment) and replace it with every engine oil change.

 2- Spark Plugs

They play a vital role in ensuring efficiency and complete combustion. Over time, spark plugs can become worn and dirty, which may lead to misfires or incomplete combustion. Resulting in reduced fuel efficiency and engine performance

Indications that your spark plugs are in poor health are: 

• Sudden drop in fuel efficiency
• Sudden loss of power of engine during acceleration
• Lacks power and take longer to accelerate
• Increased emission of harmful pollutants
• Difficulty in starting the engine
  

Rule of thumb, Sparks should be replaced every 30k to 100k Mileage of car, Depending on the type of spark plugs and the manufacturer's recommendation.

3- Throttle Body

Regulates the amount of air entering the engine. Works with fuel injector to maintain the correct air-to-fuel ratio. With time it becomes dirty and results in its malfunctioning. Disrupts the air-to-fuel ratio for combustion and reduces fuel efficiency. Get it cleaned on every tune-up.

 4- Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors play a vital role in maximizing fuel efficiency by precisely delivering fuel to the engine combustion chamber. Like any other component fuel injectors become dirty, blocked, or malfunctioning over time including overspray of fuel, leading to reduced fuel efficiency. 

Periodic cleaning of fuel injectors is essential. Replace them according to manufacturer's recommendation

4- CAT ( Catalytic Converter )

 

The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting pollutants in the exhaust into less harmful chemicals. Over time its filter gets blocked resulting in increased struggle of the engine during gas emission and reduced fuel efficiency of the engine.

Periodic cleaning of it through car CAT cleaner plays an important role in increasing fuel efficiency.

5- Sensors

• Oxygen sensor
• Mass airflow sensor
•  Throttle Position sensor
• Temperature sensor
• Knock sensors
• VSS Vehicle Speed Sensor
• MAP sensor 

These sensors provide real-time data to a car's ECU system, enabling it to make adjustments to optimize fuel delivery and engine operation. Proper maintenance and inspection of these sensors are essential for optimal fuel efficiency.

1-Eco-Friendly Driving Style

Rapid acceleration, excessive speeding, speed below 40km/h in naturally aspirated engines, and frequent breaking can decrease fuel efficiency

• Drive smoothly, avoid rapid acceleration
• Maintain your car RPM in between 1-3 for maximum fuel efficiency
• Speed between 60-80 km/h gives maximum fuel efficiency in short tours
• 110 km/h is recommended for highways to get maximum fuel efficiency
  

NOTE: Please make sure to adhere to the speed limits as per the traffic laws of your country.

2-Fuel Quality

Using fuel that meets the manufacturer's specifications and adhering to recommended fuel grades and formulations can help optimize engine performance and maximize fuel efficiency.

Fuels with higher octane numbers allow higher compression ratios and more efficient engine operation.

BUT

Don't waste your money higher octane number than required does not improve performance. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fuel grade.

3-Right Engine Oil Grade

Use engine oil as recommended by the manufacturer.

High-quality synthetic oils reduce friction in the engine and result in increased fuel efficiency.

For engine oils please read: https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/05/car-engine-oils-role-of-viscosity-and.html

4-Weight Load

Extra weight in your vehicle can reduce the fuel efficiency of your car.

Always follow the passenger capacity of your car to avoid overloading it with passengers or heavy equipment. Remove unnecessary items from your car trunk.

According to a study, every extra 100 pounds can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 2%

5-Tire Pressure

Make it a habit to check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the recommended levels.

6-Tire Size

Larger tires have a larger contact patch with the road surface, resulting in increased resistance and friction leading to higher fuel consumption. Additionally, larger tires than recommended will be harmful for car suspension.

Tire size plays an important role in a car's fuel efficiency by affecting rolling resistance, weight, gear ratios, RPM, and overall performance. Choosing the right tire size that balances performance needs with fuel economy considerations can help increase fuel efficiency. 

7-Aerodynamics (Open Windows)

Open windows can increase aerodynamic drag ( Resistance to airflow ), especially at higher speeds.

Close windows when driving on highways to improve fuel efficiency.

8-Role Of Idle Stop

Idling stop and turning off the Air Conditioning AC are two effective strategies for improving fuel efficiency. It is a simple yet impactful strategy. 

Eco-Idle System: Automatically shut off the engine when the vehicles come to a stop such as on traffic signals or in heavy traffic and restart it when the driver releases the brake pedal in an automatic transmission or engages the clutch in the manual transmission.

So if your car has this system then keep the eco-idle system on for maximum fuel efficiency.

Keep the AC off when car is in idle position. It increases the fuel efficiency and also improves the engine health.

9-Cruise Control

Using cruise control on long highways can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency. It prevents unnecessary speed fluctuations.

10-Role Of Transmission

Higher Gears

   In manual cars when driving, using higher gears (lower numerical gear ratios) allows the engine to operate at lower RPMs (revolutions per minute) for a given vehicle speed. This reduces the engine's workload and decreases fuel consumption.

    Higher gears are most effective when driving at constant speeds on highways or smooth roads with minimal changes in elevation. They help maintain a steady pace while keeping engine RPMs low, resulting in improved fuel efficiency

Modern transmissions, such as manual, automatic, continuously variable transmissions (CVT), and dual-clutch transmissions (DCT), play a vital role in managing engine power and optimizing fuel efficiency.

CAR ENGINE OILS "THE ROLE OF VISCOSITY AND WEATHER IN ENGINE OIL SELECTION"

High-quality engine oil isn't just a choice; it's an investment in your car's heart

Like a healthy food for humans 

 Welcome to our guide on car engine oils! Choosing the right engine oil for your car can be difficult, especially when many options are available. In this blog, we'll delve into the different grades of engine oils and how to select the best one for your vehicle based on weather conditions and engine requirements. And how you can protect yourself from market scams when buying engine oil. In the end, I will share a tip and the benefits of selecting high-quality engine oil.

What is Engine Oil Grades

Engine oils are classified by viscosity, which refers to the oil's resistance to flow. 

Viscosity grading system that categorizes oils into different grades, such as 0W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40, and 20W-50

•  The numbers before the "W" indicate the oil's viscosity in cold temperatures, while the numbers after the "W" denote viscosity at operating temperatures.

ENGINE OIL GRADE AND WEATHER CONDITIONS

1. Cold Weather

•    For cold weather conditions, optimal for oils with a lower cold viscosity grade, such as 0W or 5W. These oils flow more easily at low temperatures, ensuring proper lubrication during startup.
• Suitable for cars in countries like Northern Canada, Greenland,  Antarctica, Norway, Svalbard, and the United Kingdom
•  Examples include 0W-20 and 5W-30, which are suitable for winter driving in regions with sub-zero temperatures.
• These grade engine oils are mostly synthetics. But they can be conventional. 
• I personally recommend synthetic. But also depends on the suitability of the engine.

2. Moderate Weather 💦

•    In moderate climates, where temperatures typically range from mild to warm, oils with a slightly higher viscosity grade, like 10W-30, provide adequate lubrication without being too thick or thin.
• These oils offer a balance between cold-start protection and high-temperature performance.
• It is compatible with a wide range of vehicles
• 5W-30 is also suitable for moderate temperature. But mostly recommended for new cars or fuel-economical engines during moderate temperatures. In simple words, 5W-30 may be bearable in moderate temperatures.

3. Hot Weather  

• In hot climates or during summer months, it is recommended to use oils with a higher viscosity grade, such as 10W-40 or 20W-50. These types of oils maintain proper viscosity even at high temperatures, which ensures optimal engine protection.
• Thicker oils are less likely to thin out under heat stress, providing better lubrication and engine wear protection. Some countries with mostly hot temperatures include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Australia, and Mexico.

Considering Engine Condition

1. Low Mileage Engines

• New or low mileage engines tend to perform better with lighter viscosity oils, such as 0W-20, 5W-30, and 10W30. These oils flow more easily, which reduces friction and helps increase engine lifespan. Lighter oils are also ideal for engines with tight tolerances, which are commonly found in newer vehicles.
• Using lighter viscosity oils can also improve engine health in the long term, leading to better fuel economy, reduced emissions, and easier cold starts. As for the right oil to use for engines with higher mileage, 10W40 is a recommended oil for cars with mileage ranging from 80,000kms to 150,000kms.
• However, every engine has different tolerance levels and depends on how well-maintained and driven it is, as well as the atmospheric conditions it operates in. For instance, some engines like Toyota NZ engines that are driven carefully and maintained properly can run with oils 5W-30 even beyond 200,000 kilometers mileage.
• There is a common myth that engines with mileage above 200,000 kilometers must use 20W-50 grade engine oil. However, this is not true. A well-maintained engine can run with 5W-30, 10W-30, and 10W40 oils, depending on the engine's specific needs and conditions.

2. High Mileage Engines 

• For engines with high mileage, it's normal to see signs of wear and increased oil consumption. In order to address this issue, you may want to consider using thicker oils with higher viscosity grades such as 10W-40 or 20W-50. Thicker oils can help compensate for worn engine components and provide better sealing and lubrication.
• If you are currently using 5W-30 and your car starts consuming engine oil before the scheduled oil change time, it is recommended that you switch to 10W-40 and check the oil level after 1500kms of oil change. Do not directly jump to using 20W-50. If the car still consumes oil after using 10W-40, then it is recommended that you switch to 20W-50. It's also important to confirm any oil leakage.

WHY CARS CONSUME ENGINE OILS

• Cars can consume engine oil for several reasons, it could be because of engine wear, leaking gaskets or seals, PCV system issues, driving habits, high mileage, incorrect oil level, and oil type or quality.
•  It is important to use the correct oil viscosity recommended by the manufacturer and choose high-quality oils that meet the vehicle's specifications.

MARKET SCAMS AND THEIR IMPACTS ON CAR ENGINE HEALTH

 Engine oil scams are prevalent in the automotive industry. Counterfeit, false claims, diluted or recycled oils, and overcharging for services are some of the common scams. These scams can lead to accelerated engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and ultimately, engine failure. Repairing or replacing damaged engine components can be expensive and may result in vehicle downtime.

HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMS

• Purchase engine oil from reputable retailers and authorized dealers.
•  Verify product authenticity by checking for certification seals, batch numbers, and manufacturer information.
• Follow vehicle manufacturer recommendations for oil specifications and change intervals.
•  Be cautious of unrealistically low prices or overly aggressive marketing claims.
• Report suspicious or fraudulent products to relevant authorities for investigation and enforcement.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT TIPS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE GRADE OF ENGINE OIL.

  1. Consult Your Owner's Manual: Your vehicle's owner's manual is the best place to start. It provides specific recommendations from the manufacturer regarding the viscosity grade and performance specifications required for your engine. Follow these guidelines closely.

2. Consider Climate and Weather Conditions: Choose an oil viscosity grade that is suitable for the climate and weather conditions in your area. In colder climates, opt for lower viscosity oils (e.g., 0W or 5W) to ensure easy cold-start performance and proper lubrication in freezing temperatures. In hotter climates, consider higher viscosity oils (e.g., 10W or 20W) to maintain viscosity and protect against heat-related engine stress.

3. Understand Viscosity Grades: Engine oils are classified by viscosity grades, which indicate the oil's flow characteristics at different temperatures. The numbers before the "W" (e.g., 0W, 5W, 10W) represent the oil's viscosity in cold temperatures, while the numbers after the "W" (e.g., 20, 30, 40) indicate viscosity at operating temperatures. Lower viscosity oils flow more easily at cold temperatures, while higher viscosity oils provide better protection at high temperatures.

4. Consider Engine Age and Condition: The age and condition of your engine can also influence the choice of oil grade. Newer engines with tight tolerances may benefit from lighter viscosity oils, while older or high-mileage engines may require thicker oils to compensate for wear and reduce oil consumption. Consult a mechanic or automotive expert for recommendations tailored to your engine's specific needs.

5. Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: Stick to engine oils that meet or exceed the manufacturer's specifications and performance requirements. Look for oils that carry the appropriate certifications and approvals, such as API (American Petroleum Institute) and ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers Association), to ensure quality and compatibility with your vehicle.

6. Consider Synthetic vs. Conventional Oils: Synthetic oils offer superior performance and protection compared to conventional oils, especially in extreme temperatures and demanding driving conditions. If your vehicle requires enhanced performance or you want to maximize engine longevity, consider using synthetic oils. However, always check compatibility with your vehicle and follow manufacturer recommendations.

7. Regular Maintenance: Lastly, maintain a regular oil change schedule according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Even the best-quality oil will degrade over time and lose its effectiveness, so it's essential to replace it at the recommended intervals to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

REVAMPING YOUR RIDE: HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR OLD INTO NEW CAR

TOYOTA COROLLA 1987

 Do you have an old car sitting in your driveway, longing for a fresh start? Whether it's a classic beauty or a faithful companion that's seen better days, there's something special about revamping an old car and giving it a new lease on life. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of transforming your aging vehicle into a stunning, rejuvenated ride that turns heads and feels like new again.

This is my car in the above picture and I am going to share the complete journey of transforming its old condition into new stunning looks 

Car Information and issues

Make: Toyota

Model: Corolla DX SALOON (1987)

Engine: 12 Valve, 2E

Issues

• Severe Leakage of engine oil and transmission oil
• Noisy Suspension 
• Rusted Radiator
• Dim Head Lights
• Back tail lights not working
• Faded out paint from outside
• Small rust patches
• Dirty Interior
• Dirty Engine Bay

📊 💰 "THE  MOST IMPORTANT TOTAL EXPENSE/BUDGET."

PKR rs40,000 / 146$ USD

This is the total amount I spent on it to transform it looks

SOME STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW

• Start with the basics.
• First, start fixing your car mechanically.
• Then, give attention to the exterior
• Fixing Interior
• The Final Step is complete Detailing

1- ITS TIME TO GREET THE MECHANICS

While appearance is important, don't neglect the performance and reliability of your revamped vehicle.
Schedule a comprehensive inspection with a trusted mechanic to address any underlying mechanical issues and perform necessary maintenance tasks

• After a general inspection, the mechanic replaced the tapered cover seal, timing belt seal, and lower chamber seal. They also replaced the gear lower chamber nut and changed the ball joints and suspension boots. The shocks and springs were found to be in good condition. The last thing that was done was tuning the vehicle and replacing the plugs.
• The oil leakage issue was resolved and suspension noises were also resolved
• Due to tunning its fuel average turns from 9kms/L to 16kms/L
• Now it comes to cleaning the radiator and replacing rusted water with car radiator coolant
• I suspect radiator pipe leakages but they were good enough. But I strongly suggest replacing them in extreme weather conditions, especially in hot summers.
• Check Brakes, Tire condition, Wheel Balancing, and Alignment.
• Before leaving the mechanic, always remember to check the nuts and bolts of the suspension and tires. This important step will ensure your safety on the road.

2- IT IS TIME TO GREET THE ELECTRICIANS

Inspecting your car by an electrician is crucial because they can identify and rectify electrical issues that may compromise safety or performance. 

• This includes checking the battery, wiring, lights, and electronic components to ensure everything functions properly, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents caused by electrical failures.
• The car's front headlight and tail lamp bulbs were changed
•  its tail light covers and turning indicator covers were replaced. This is not only important for road safety but also enhances the car's exterior appearance. 

The light covers were replaced after the paint job and denting process to protect them from damage and paint overspray.

This picture was taken after the paint job

3- IT IS TIME TO GREET DENTER AND PAINTER 

As mentioned earlier, when inspecting a car, it's always important to start with the basics. Don't solely rely on the workers, as they are simply doing their job and servicing many cars. It's best to observe the car yourself. Look for any wavy surfaces or dents and inspect the entire body for rust. If any plastic parts of the car need to be removed, make sure you are present and take them with you to protect them from breaking or getting misplaced.

Note: The paint condition of the roof, trunk, and bonnet was good and original, so there was no need for me to do anything with them. However, the sides and doors were completely resprayed from the inside and outside to improve their appearance and protect them from rust.

As the car underwent its transformation, each new exterior detail ripened with anticipation, mirroring how my patience was bearing fruit with every passing moment.

Also Got the engine tapered cover repainted. will share its picture of before and after in the end

4- THE LAST STEP DETAILING/WASHING OF THE CAR

You have a choice if you want your car detailed by yourself or from trusted outside detailing service

I Detailed it myself

THERE ARE SOME TIPS

• Remove all the seats and carpets from interior 
• Remove the car battery and cover all important electrical components
• Remove water drainage rubbers from the interior
• Wash the seats and carpets with a pressure washer (Mix petrol, Cloth detergent, All Purpose Cleaner, and Water. Evenly spray them on seats and carpet, Use soft brushes to remove strain marks, At the end rinse them with water) Use this formula if you have no detailing products or no knowledge about them.
• Repeat the above step for fabric and leather parts.
• I suggest not using any acidic product for interior plastic parts as it damages the paint. 
• Use soft brushes and soft microfibers for the interior. Use the recommended All Purpose Cleaner for the interior according to your car.
• For the engine use a good quality engine degreaser or you can apply the formula I mentioned above for cleaning fabric and leather parts as I found it to be very helpful.
• Let all the stuff to dry 
• Fit them back.
  

I have also written a blog on how to wash your car at home you can read it by clicking the link given below : https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/04/how-to-wash-car-at-home-tips-for.html

NOW I AM GOING TO SHARE THE BEFORE AND AFTER OF MY CAR

AFTER

BEFORE

INTERIOR

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

EXTERIOR 😎

"Maintaining your car isn't just about preserving its condition; it's a reflection of pride and respect for the journey it takes you on. Keep it pristine, and every drive becomes a testament to your care and attention."

How to wash car at home : Tips for Scratch Free Washing"

          

RULES TO BE FOLLOWED BEFORE WASHING CAR AT HOME

When washing your car at home, be mindful of local regulations regarding water usage and runoff.

• Use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose to minimize water waste
• Use eco-friendly detailing products
• Dispose of wastewater properly
• Avoid washing your car during drought conditions
• Always check your local  authorities for specific regulations

MASTERING THE ART OF SCRATCH FREE WASHING AT HOME, EASY AND BRIEF STEP BY STEP GUIDE 

In the pursuit of keeping your car gleaming and scratch-free, washing it at home can be a rewarding task. However, without the right techniques and precautions, you might inadvertently introduce scratches or swirl marks to your vehicle's paintwork. Fear not! Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure your at-home car wash leaves your vehicle shining without a scratch in sight.

1- Gather Your Supplies

• Two buckets: One for soapy water and another for rinsing.
• Pressure washer with foam gun.
• High quality microfiber wash mitts/sponges
• High quality microfiber towels for drying 
• Air blower for drying car and removing water from your car to prevent rust, scratches and water spots
• pH-Balanced car wash shampoo is very important for protecting your car paint. Don't use cloths washing and dish washing detergents.
• Grit guards for the buckets to trap dirt and prevent scratching.

2- Pre-wash Rinse

• Start by rinsing your car thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
• You can also use pre-wash rinsing products of different companies.
• Use a gentle nozzle and pressure washer on a low setting to avoid blasting dirt into the paint
• Don't apply microfiber cloth directly on dirty body

3- Wash Method:

• Fill one bucket with clean, soapy water and the other with plain water for rinsing.
• Use the two-bucket method: Dip your wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water, wash a section of the car, then rinse it in the clean water bucket before reloading with soap.
• Work from the top down, washing one section at a time to prevent soap from drying on the surface.

4- Mindful Technique:

• Use gentle pressure and long, straight motions when washing to avoid trapping dirt particles between the wash mitt and the paint.
• Rinse the wash mitt frequently to prevent dirt buildup and scratching. Avoid using circular motions, as they can create swirl marks.

5- Wheels and Tires:

• Use a separate wash mitt or brush for cleaning wheels and tires to prevent cross-contamination.
• Apply wheel cleaner and agitate with a brush to remove brake dust and grime.
  
  
  

6-Drying:

• Pat the car dry using soft, clean microfiber towels.
• Avoid rubbing or dragging the towel across the paint, as this can cause scratches.
• Consider using a quick detailer spray or spray wax as a lubricant while drying to minimize friction and add shine.

• Use air blower to remove water from rubbers and tight spaces

7- Interior Cleaning:

Cleaning the interior of your car without causing scratches requires careful attention to detail and the use of appropriate tools and techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your car's interior safely:

• Remove Debris: Start by removing any large debris such as trash, papers, or items from the interior. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove dirt and crumbs from seats, carpets, and floor mats.
• Choose the Right Cleaning Products: Use interior-specific cleaning products that are gentle on surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage or discolor upholstery, plastic, or leather. Optimized for mild cleaners or specialized interior detailing sprays.
• Test in a Hidden Area: Before applying any cleaner to visible areas, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse effects such as staining or discoloration.
• Use Soft Brushes and Cloths: When cleaning surfaces like dashboard, door panels, and center console, use soft microfiber towels or brushes specifically designed for interior detailing. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch surfaces.
• Dust and Wipe Down Surfaces: Start by dusting off surfaces using a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Gently wipe down surfaces with a dampened cloth or a mild cleaning solution, depending on the level of dirt and grime. Work in small sections and avoid excessive moisture.
• Clean Upholstery and Fabric: For fabric seats and upholstery, use a fabric cleaner or upholstery shampoo designed for car interiors. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use a soft brush to agitate the cleaner and lift dirt. Blot excess moisture with a clean towel and allow the fabric to air dry completely.
• Treat Leather Carefully: If your car has leather seats or trim, use a leather cleaner and conditioner specifically formulated for automotive use. Apply the cleaner using a soft cloth, gently massaging it into the leather. Wipe off excess cleaner and follow up with a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple.
• Clean and Condition Vinyl and Plastic: Use a mild all-purpose cleaner or interior detailing spray for cleaning vinyl and plastic surfaces. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and wipe down surfaces, paying attention to textured areas and crevices. Follow up with a plastic or vinyl conditioner to protect and restore shine.
• Address Glass and Mirrors: Use a glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth to clean interior glass surfaces, such as windows and mirrors. Buff the glass to a streak-free shine.
• Finish with Vacuuming: Once all surfaces are clean and dry, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any remaining dirt or debris from carpets, upholstery, and floor mats.

8- Engine Bay Cleaning:

BEFORE

AFTER

• I cleaned my car engine bay using these steps
• Prepare the Engine: Before starting, ensure the engine is cool to the touch to prevent water from evaporating too quickly and leaving behind water spots. If the engine is warm, allow it to cool down completely before proceeding.
• Cover Sensitive Components: Use plastic bags, aluminum foil, or specialized engine covers to protect sensitive electrical components such as the battery, alternator, fuse box, and electronic sensors. Secure these covers tightly to prevent water from penetrating.
• Disconnect the Battery: If you prefer to err on the side of caution, disconnect the battery to prevent any chance of electrical damage. Remember to reconnect it once the cleaning process is complete.
• Degrease the Engine: Use a degreaser specifically formulated for car engines to break down grease, oil, and grime buildup. Apply the degreaser to the engine surfaces, focusing on areas with heavy dirt accumulation. Allow the degreaser to dwell for a few minutes according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Agitate with Brushes: Use soft-bristled brushes, such as detailing brushes or paintbrushes, to gently agitate the degreaser and loosen stubborn dirt and grime. Avoid using abrasive brushes that could scratch or damage surfaces.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Use a gentle stream of water from a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting to rinse away the degreaser and loosened dirt. Ensure that the water pressure is not too high to prevent water from forcing its way into electrical connectors or sensitive components.
• Dry the Engine: Use compressed air or a leaf blower on a low setting to blow excess water off the engine surfaces. Alternatively, you can use clean microfiber towels to gently pat the surfaces dry. Avoid using excessive force or rubbing, as this could cause damage.
• Inspect for Remaining Dirt: Once the engine is dry, inspect it carefully for any remaining dirt or grease spots. Use a clean microfiber towel and a mild cleaner to spot-clean any stubborn areas if necessary.
• Apply Engine Dressing: If desired, apply a water-based engine dressing or protectant to enhance the appearance of plastic and rubber components. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and allow it to dry completely.
• Reconnect Battery and Remove Covers: If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it once the engine is dry and the covers are removed. Carefully remove any protective covers or bags from electrical components. And start the engine.

9- Trunk Cleaning

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dirt and loose particles from the trunk floor and walls. Pay attention to the corners, seams, and under the spare tire.
• Inspect spare tire and tools
• Use fabric or All purpose cleaner after vacuum

10- Final Touches

• Inspect the car under bright light to ensure no water spots or streaks
• Use a clean Microfiber towel to buff any remaining water spot.

11- Waxing

• Waxing your car creates a protective layer that helps prevent scratches and maintains the shine
• Park your car under shaded areas whenever possible to minimize exposure to UV rays and environmental contaminants

12- Steps you should follow

1. Start with engine cleaning
2. Interior and Trunk
3. Exterior
4. Waxing

13- Precautions

• Use quality wash mitts and microfibers
• Avoid acidic products
• Avoid circular motions
• Use proper technique during drying and waxing
• Use soft brushes and microfiber towels
• Use gentle water pressure
• Use grit guards
  

PROTECT YOURSELF 😀

AVOID WASHING CAR IN EXTREME TEMPREATURES AND KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED 😉💦

In My Next Blog I Will Share a Before and After and a Dirty Car Cleaning Journey. 

"Empower your purchase" Tips for Checking a Used Car's Condition

 Buying a used car can be a smart financial move, but it comes with its share of risks. To avoid purchasing a lemon, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making any commitments. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to assess a used car's condition and make an informed decision.

1. Research Before You Roll:

Before even laying eyes on a potential purchase, do your homework. Research the make and model you're interested in, including common issues, average prices, and market trends. This knowledge will arm you with valuable information during negotiations and help you spot any red flags during the inspection.

2. Start with the Basics:

Take a complete round around the car. Begin by examining the car's exterior for signs of damage, rust, or mismatched paint, which could indicate previous accidents or neglect. Check the body panels for alignment and consistency, as irregularities may suggest repairs or structural damage. 

Read my previous blog for how to judge car paint.

Take a complete round around the car.

For checking the alignments of body panels sit at the side of front or back corner of the car and carefully observe the complete side. observe the door edges and match its continuity with the next panel. Mostly repaired parts have rough finishing around the corners and character lines are not sleek. 

Character lines

Carefully inspect the tire arch frame from the inside for rusted area or any cuts and welds or repairs after an accident

You can easily detect any major accident or repair work due to rust from tire arch frame

Inspect all door seals 
press them down with your fingernails if they leave a nail mark that means they have been repaired or later refixed

Inspecting Engine bay ( Most important )

Mileage 3 lacs kilometer 

• Carefully inspect car strut towers ( Compare right with the left one )
• Carefully inspect strut panels and its joints with strut towers and core radiator frame 
• Now carefully observe the condition of the engine. First start with engine assembly outlook. If its shinny and fresh, it definitely means that vehicle mileage is low. Low mileage cars usually have paint marks on the nuts and bolts.

Low mileage engine

• Look for engine oil and transmission oil leaks
• Check engine oil level (Before starting engine)
• Start car engine and allow it to maintain its normal temperature
• Open the engine oil cap and check engine blow ( Blue smoke from the engine oil cap is an indication of engine weakness )
• Shift the gear into reverse and check gear oil level
• Take a car for drive with the ac on
• Accelerate the vehicle and note any unusual noises from engine
• Note any unusual noises from suspension on rough roads
• Note any unusual noises during gear shifts  (I will discuss in detail on jerk and noises in gear in my next blog)
• Note smoke from silencer

Suspension check

1. Visual Inspection: Look for signs of wear or damage on the suspension components such as shocks, struts, springs, and control arms.
2. Test Drive: Pay attention to how the car feels while driving. Any unusual noises, vibrations, or excessive bouncing could indicate suspension issues.
3. Bounce Test: Push down firmly on each corner of the car and release. The car should bounce back and settle quickly. If it continues to bounce or feels unstable, there might be a problem
4. Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven wear on tires could indicate suspension problems. Inspect for patterns such as cupping or scalloping.
5. Alignment Check: Misaligned wheels can be a sign of suspension issues. If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel isn't centered when driving straight, get the alignment checked.
6. Check Fluid Leaks: Inspect under the car for any signs of fluid leaks, which could indicate a problem with the shocks or struts.
7. Listen for Clunks or Rattles: While driving over bumps or rough roads, listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension that could indicate worn-out components.

 Dive into the Interior

Step inside the cabin and assess the overall condition. Check the seats, upholstery, and carpeting for stains, tears, or excessive wear. Test all the electronic features, including the air conditioning, stereo system, power windows, and door locks, to ensure they're functioning properly.

Check tires condition

• Visually inspect for any visible damage, like cuts or bulges
• Look for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues
• Check the sidewalls for cracks or signs of aging

Check car boot and tire tool kit

 Get a Second Opinion

 Check the Paper Trail : Blog coming soon

 Negotiate with Confidence

Armed with a thorough understanding of the car's condition, you're ready to negotiate a fair price. Use any issues uncovered during the inspection to your advantage, but be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to budge or disclose necessary information.

**Conclusion:**

Buying a used car doesn't have to be a daunting task. With careful research, thorough inspection, and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can confidently navigate the pre-owned car market and find a reliable vehicle that meets your needs and budget. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to hitting the road with peace of mind and a quality ride at your side.

Read my previous blog on how to spot car original paint https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/04/how-to-spot-original-car-paint-like-pro.html

Comment below if you are interested in reading blogs on cars and suggest topics you'd like me to cover.