Quite often we hop into our car, turn the key, raise our windows, and drive to wherever we wish to go. It's a regular routine we car owners follow. The only time this routine sees an interruption is when the engine refuses to start or makes a noise that is alien to us.

When this happens, we drive to the garage and inform our car insurance firm. This is the time when that cashless garage network list comes in handy.

While all this is good what about the regular maintenance of your car engine? Regular care keeps an engine clean and reduces the risk of damage.

Keeping the thought of maintenance in mind here are seven top habits you can develop to protect your car engine.

Check the engine oil

Changing the oil regularly is the most important thing you can do to make your engine last for a very long time. The oil prevents overheating of the engine. Make sure the parts are well-lubricated. Check the manufacturer's manual on the correct time to change the oil.

Clean and change the air filter

The air filter catches dust and debris and prevents them from harming the engine parts. Keeping it clean and changing it at regular intervals is essential. A clean air filter assists in increased fuel efficiency and a prolonged engine life.

Make sure the cooling system works

The cooling system is responsible for keeping the engine temperature under control. The system includes a coolant which circulates through the engine when it is heated. Keep a regular tab on the coolant level. A heated engine is susceptible to a lot of damage.

Remember to change the spark plugs

Spark plugs produce sparks to initiate a combustion in an engine that provides energy for the car to run. While these plugs last long you need to change them after a certain while. Bad spark plugs are responsible for poor mileage and acceleration among other problems. Check the manufacturer details/manual for the recommended distance after which you should change the spark plugs.

Keep an eye on the serpentine belt

It is a single continuous belt that is responsible for the function of many parts such as the air-conditioning compressor water pump etc. The belt is on whenever the engine is working. If you observe cracks on the belt or a squealing noise when you drive it is time to replace the belt. A damaged belt leads to a damaged engine.

Pay attention to dashboard indicators

The little lights light up whenever there is low fuel an issue with emission battery not charging properly low oil pressure among other indicators. Pay attention to them and if there is a serious issue visit a garage immediately to ensure there is no permanent damage to your car engine and other parts.

Purchase an add-on cover

These are special covers designed to safeguard your car against specific scenarios. An engine protector cover is one of the add-ons you should buy. It is designed to protect the car engine against a range of events.

Did you know:  Most car owners do not realize the importance of being consistent with their car engine protection tasks and end up spending big bucks or making an insurance claim when a technical problem comes up.