Many breakdowns we see on a day to day basis can be prevented by regular servicing using quality filters, spark plugs and engine oil.
A few real life examples of this, which we have experienced in the recent months are:
Engine oil “coking up”
This is when the golden oil that you use on a service starts turning to sludge and then eventually turns into a solid – this is due to the absorbing of carbon, sometimes this can be easily identified by looking at the underside of the oil filler cap, on other occasions the engine will require stripping down. Problems this can cause range from poor engine running, to expensive Vanos and turbocharger faults, which can run into the hundreds of pounds to rectify.
In order to prevent this happening to your engine we recommend changing the engine oil annually or at 10,000 miles, using a genuine or O.E oil filter, Castrol Edge engine oil and an engine flush.
Spark plugs worn out
All petrol engines use spark plugs, and as engines have evolved the spark plug has evolved with them. This tiny part is what creates the combustion which is vital to the running of the engine. A spark plug has a center
Poor engine running electrode – a gap – and then an earth electrode. The gap is pre-determined and is critical to the way the spark is created. Too small or big a gap = no spark.
Over time this gap will widen as the electrodes wear down, this can cause poor combustion which brings with
it a whole host of problems such as:
- Poor running
- Lack of power
- Reduced MPG
- Increased emissions
- Engine warning light
- Engine misfires
In order to prevent this problem the spark plugs should be replaced as per BMW and Mini servicing schedules.
This varies model to model by typical Pre 2008 cars are 60,000 miles or 6 years. Post 2008 cars are 40,000 miles or every 4 years. We recommend O.E NGK or Bosch spark plugs
Diesel Fuel Filters Blocked
Diesel fuel filters are fitted to prevent contamination of the high pressure fuel pump. Unlike petrol, diesel is not considered a clean fuel ( think black smoke out of old diesel exhaust pipes ) In order to protect expensive fuel pumps and fuel injectors, fuel filters are fitted.
Overtime if the filter is not replaced the flow of fuel through it will slow and cause the fuel pressure to drop off at first this will not be noticeable but it left can eventually lead to a lack of power, engines cutting out, and even engines not starting.
To prevent this the fuel filter should be replaced as per the servicing schedules. This varies model to model but typically Per-2008 cars are around 60,000 miles or 6 years, Post-2008 cars are 40,000 mile or every 2 years.