NAPSI: New technologies used in the engines of the latest cars may require drivers to rethink car care so that they get the most from their engines.

That’s because these newer technologies, such as direct injection, are generally more sensitive to the buildup of gunk, which can have a negative impact on an engine’s performance—even more so than in conventional engines.

Modern direct injection technology places the fuel injector directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for increased power and efficiency. However, the fuel injector is subject to greater heat and pressure, which can cause a breakdown of cleaning agents, allowing the buildup of gunk. This gunk can impair fuel flow, which can reduce power and efficiency.

On the horizon
J.D. Power and Associates forecasts that in the next four years, the number of vehicles with direct injection engines will more than triple from the 10 percent reported in 2010.

With advanced engine technologies becoming more prevalent, car owners are looking for tips to best care for and maintain their cars.

Tips from the pros
To help, Shell surveyed 450 automotive mechanics from across the country to gather practical advice on how consumers can best care for their vehicles to increase longevity and protect performance.

Here are some of their tips:
• It may sound simple, but changing oil at manufacturer-suggested intervals is important.

• The same is true when it comes to replacing essential fluids. Make sure it’s done on a timely basis following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.

• Rotating and aligning tires regularly can improve mileage and make for less wear and tear on the tires.

• Nearly 80 percent of the mechanics surveyed agreed that vehicle owners with newer engine technologies—such as turbo, hybrids and direct injection—should fill up with high-quality gasoline.

While using a high-quality gasoline is important, using a high-quality premium gasoline, particularly in vehicles that require or recommend premium fuel, can provide benefits that go beyond high octane. For example, Shell V-Power premium gasoline is designed to work under the extremely hot temperatures found in direct injection vehicles. By maintaining thermal stability, it protects against gunk to deliver optimum performance.

Gasolines are required by federal standards to include cleaning agents. However, some gasolines stand out by including more cleaning agents than required. Shell V-Power premium gasoline, for example, contains five times the amount of cleaning agents to provide maximum protection of intake valves and fuel injectors.

Auto manufacturers recognize that a clean engine allows it to perform at optimum efficiency levels and they recommend consumers use high-quality fuels to power their vehicles.

To learn more, visit www.shell.us/vpower. North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.