“Rrrrrevv up your engines!”
Sound familiar? Then you may well have watched one or two videos by one Scotty Kilmer, perhaps one of YouTube’s best-known mechanics and automotive influencers. When it comes to car maintenance and care, few voices are as well-regarded as Kilmer’s. The man has an unmistakeable style, and the advice he gives on his YouTube channel encompasses everything from spark plugs to starter motors, crankshafts to catalytic converters. And sure, he may have his detractors – he’s a bit of an acquired taste – but there’s no question that there’s plenty of valuable advice to be found on his channel.
That’s particularly true if you’re planning on buying any salvage cars from our online car auctions here at RAW2K – whether you’re planning to take them to pieces for parts, or fix them up and get them back on the roads. Whatever the case, here are five of Scotty’s top tips that have really stood the test of time!
Avoid premium fuel for most cars
A common misconception among drivers is that premium fuel provides superior performance for all vehicles. Scotty advises against using premium fuel unless it’s specifically required by your car’s manufacturer – he’s quite passionate about it. Most modern engines are designed to run efficiently on regular unleaded fuel. Using a higher octane fuel than necessary typically doesn’t enhance performance or fuel economy, and the extra cost may not be justified.
Premium fuel is often marketed as enhancing engine performance or longevity, but for many standard engines, this isn’t the case. So if you’re looking to get a second-hand car fuelled up, sticking with regular fuel means you won’t have to worry about the added expense of premium options, which can accumulate over time.
Don’t overuse the air conditioning
Air conditioning can be a welcome relief on hot days, but excessive use can put extra strain on your car’s engine and lower fuel efficiency. Scotty suggests using the air conditioning system sparingly and considering open windows as an alternative when driving at lower speeds. Constant use of the AC can also speed up wear and tear on the system’s components, potentially leading to expensive repairs. To maintain the longevity of your AC system, it’s useful to use it occasionally to keep the refrigerant circulating, even in cooler weather. If you’re looking at getting a salvage car back on the road, it’s a good idea to check the condition of the air conditioning system during your general checks, as repairs can be costly and affect overall comfort.
Regularly clean your battery terminals
Now, this is one that might sound particularly familiar if you’re a regular viewer of Mr Kilmer’s videos. Battery maintenance is often overlooked, but it’s essential for ensuring reliable vehicle performance. Scotty recommends cleaning the battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion, which can impede electrical connections and cause starting issues. Corroded terminals can lead to intermittent power loss, affecting the car’s ability to start or operate correctly. Cleaning thankfully isn’t too intensive – it just involves disconnecting the battery, brushing off corrosion with a wire brush, and applying a protective coating to avoid future build-up. A well-maintained battery prevents frustrating breakdowns and ensures smooth starts.
Avoid frequent short trips
Frequent short trips can be particularly hard on your car’s engine. When you drive short distances, the engine doesn’t have enough time to reach its optimal operating temperature, leading to increased wear and reduced fuel efficiency. This can also result in a build-up of moisture and contaminants in the engine oil, further impacting performance. Scotty advises letting your engine warm up properly before driving, and consolidating trips when possible to allow the engine to reach its full operating temperature. As ever, a thorough inspection can help identify any potential issues related to such driving patterns and ensure that the car has been maintained properly.
Don’t ignore oil filter changes
This falls into the category of general tips, but it’s really, really important. Many drivers remember to change their engine oil but overlook the importance of changing the oil filter. Scotty makes it clear that replacing the oil filter with each oil change is crucial for maintaining engine health. A clean oil filter helps remove contaminants and particles from the engine oil, which is important for preventing damage and ensuring smooth operation. Neglecting to change the oil filter can lead to reduced oil flow and increased wear on engine components. It’s vital for engine efficiency and durability, and verifying it provides peace of mind about the vehicle’s overall condition.
That’s just a short list of our personal favourites – you can find plenty more over for yourself over on Scotty’s YouTube channel! On the other hand, if you’re ready to get started on buying used or salvage cars, you can find exactly what you’re after right here at RAW2K.
We take pride in providing you with a huge range of salvage cars to choose from in our online car auctions, including not just models from the likes of Ford and Volkswagen, as well as a range of other world famous brands like Mercedes, Honda, and Peugeot. Our auctions are refreshed on a daily and weekly basis, so there are always bargains to be found. Why not take a look around, and see what you can find?
