Factors That Determine How Long Your Car Engine Lasts

Some parts on your car such as the tyres, brake pads and rotors are made to wear and be replaced, but the engine and it’s parts are made to last the life of your vehicle. If parts of an engine fail, they will need to be replaced or you risk damaging the engine beyond repair.

Replacing parts of an engine is in no way cheap, neither are they easy to repair. In a lot of cases, any problem with the engine usually results in the driver or owner of the car considering purchasing a new vehicle. This decision however mostly boils down to the economic value of a vehicle and it’s useful life.

So, the big question is; how long will your car last? A simple answer that however doesn’t encompass all is that if you purchase a vehicle with a good engine, then it’s really up to you. Check out these four factors that influence how long your car Engine lasts.

What Is The Engine Made Of?
Everyone knows that engines are made of metal, but the type of metal determines durability. Engines are commonly made of aluminum, iron, or a combination of aluminum and iron.
Iron tends to be more durable because it has the ability to withstand higher temperatures better over time. Aluminum is substantially lighter, and is often used in parts like the headers, while iron is more commonly found in the engine block.

Advancements in Technology
Engines produced now have higher common standards than those produced decades ago. They are rigorously tested, built with better materials and have more innovative designs than ever before.
These advancements are the result of regulatory agencies and forces around the world,which are all working to set higher emissions standards. New standards lead to increased efficiency, reduced emissions and less wear.

Driving Habits
The degree to which your engine has to work greatly influences how long they last. Rapid acceleration or deceleration, deploying the throttle to its maximum, thereby redlining the revolutions per minute (RPMs) and towing heavy loads can put excessive stress on an engine. All these factors act to shorten the lifespan of your car.

Maintenance
just like your driving habits, maintenance of your engine is a huge determining factor of the longevity of your car. Maintenance is entirely dependent on you, the vehicle owner. Stay up to date on routine maintenance for fluids and filters, and be aware of the systems that your engine depends on. Keep an eye on the oil and ensure your oil pressure sensor is working.

Your car engine also works in tandem with other car systems, including exhaust, cooling, transmission and electrical systems. If any of these systems aren’t functioning properly, the engine may have to pick up the slack, reducing its effectiveness over a long lifespan.