I have a 13-year-old car which has clocked 230,000km.
Does it need an engine overhaul?
While I am aware of suspension and brake overhauls that might be necessary, my concern is the engine.
My father used to speak of “top overhaul”, “piston overhaul” and “de-carbonising”.
Should I be sending my car for any of these?
Admittedly, 230,000km is a high mileage for any car.
It will not be long before an engine overhaul or some major work becomes necessary.
Mileage aside, other signs that your car needs an engine overhaul include increased fuel consumption, bluish-white smoke from the exhaust and high engine oil consumption.
The terms “top overhaul” and “de-carbonising” refer to refurbishing the cylinder head by cleaning away any carbon build-up.
Years ago, black soot accumulating around the cylinder head, valves and tops of pistons, like barnacles attaching to legs of a jetty, was a common problem.
These days, thanks to electronic ignition and fuel injection, plus advances in combustion chamber design and the chemistry of fuels, carbon build-up is no longer a serious problem.
Having said that, with high mileage, there is bound to be normal wear in other parts within the engine – such as piston rings and bearings.
What’s the difference between mineral and synthetic engine oil?
However, if the car has been serviced regularly with good quality lubricants, you may be lucky enough to get away with a new set of pistons and piston rings.
Often, engines which approach mileage of 300,000km or those that have been poorly maintained will need more than an engine overhaul.
They will require a complete engine re-build. That will be a costly endeavour.
Read this before tackling a big car repair yourself.
