To check for vacuum leaks, you can use a can of carburetor cleaner or brake cleaner. These sprays are easy to find at auto parts stores. They’re flammable, so use caution, but they work well for this job. Start your car and let it idle. Then, spray the cleaner around suspected areas of the vacuum … Read more
A degreaser works much better when cleaning engine parts. Solvents like kerosene or mineral spirits work wonders for breaking down oil, grease, and grime. Kerosene is often favored for cutting through tough grease without being overly harsh. Mineral spirits, on the other hand, evaporate more cleanly, leaving less residue behind. Water-based degreasers are a solid … Read more
Engines get dirty. That’s just what happens. Over time, all that heat, dust, and old oil turns into a thick sludge that sticks to everything. I’ve been there—pulling out the dipstick and seeing a black, goopy mess instead of smooth, clean oil. That’s why I went deep into figuring out the best way to clean … Read more
Engines are the lifeblood of cars. They define the car’s power and driving experience. There are many different engine types in the automotive world. Some are made for speed, while others focus on efficiency. Gasoline Engines Lead the Pack Gasoline engines are the most common, found in most cars. They run on petrol and are … Read more
A leaking valve cover gasket can cause a misfire. This happens because the gasket is designed to seal oil inside the valve cover. Oil can seep into places it shouldn’t, like the spark plug wells when it leaks. Oil around the spark plugs disrupts their ability to fire correctly. This interference can lead to incomplete … Read more
A car engine can’t last forever. Wear and tear will catch up no matter how well you care for it. Engines are made of metal, and friction slowly takes its toll. But with the proper care, you can make them last a long time—the secret lies in maintenance, careful driving, and paying attention to details. … Read more
Replacing the valve cover gasket on a Subaru Outback typically costs between $300 and $600. The cost varies depending on the car model and location. Labor tends to make up most of the cost since accessing the valve cover can be tricky. On average, you’re looking at about two to four hours of work, which … Read more
A bad valve cover gasket can cause vacuum leaks. The gasket seals the engine’s valve cover. When it fails, it creates small gaps or cracks. These gaps allow air to enter the engine where it shouldn’t, disrupting its vacuum system. The vacuum system is crucial for maintaining the proper air-fuel ratio. In some cases, it … Read more
A valve cover gasket is designed to last a long time but doesn’t last forever. It’s made from rubber or cork that can break down over time. The heat from the engine, constant pressure, and natural wear and tear can all take a toll. On average, a valve cover gasket can last five to ten … Read more
Nitrile rubber is one of the best materials for gasoline seals. It plays an important role for sealing. Nitrile rubber resists fuel and remains flexible even after prolonged exposure. This rugged material handles pressure well. Another solid option is Viton, a high-performance synthetic rubber. It offers excellent resistance to gasoline even when mixed with ethanol. … Read more
