The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The sizzling hot summer not only affects human but also one of your prized possessions which is your vehicle. This is why one needs to be careful especially when your car is already five years old and above.
And according to Warren Lim Latoy and Joel Torres, the top honchos at the Master Garage Quezon City, as the temperatures this summer, “our vehicles become more vulnerable to engine stress, overheating, poor fuel efficiency, and unexpected breakdowns.”
“And one of the most commonly neglected, and yet important maintenance services during this season, is the EGR cleaning — a procedure that helps maintain engine performance and prevent long-term damage,” they said.
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation system is designed to reduce harmful emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s combustion chamber. This helps lower engine temperature and minimize nitrogen oxide emissions.
Over time, carbon deposits build up inside the EGR valve and intake passages. Once clogged, the engine may experience several issues such as — Loss of engine power; Rough idling; Delayed acceleration; Increased fuel consumption; Black smoke emission; Engine warning lights; and Overheating issues.
During summer, these problems become more noticeable because engines naturally operate under higher temperatures, according to both Warren Lim Latoy and Joel Torres
This is why EGR cleaning is very important during hot summer weather as it places extra strain on the engine, they added. If the EGR system is dirty or clogged, airflow and combustion efficiency are affected, causing the engine to work harder than normal.
“Regular EGR cleaning helps – Improve engine performance, Restore fuel efficiency, Reduce carbon buildup, Prevent overheating, Extend engine lifespan, Improve throttle response, Reduce harmful emissions for diesel vehicles. EGR cleaning is highly recommended as part of preventive maintenance,” the two said.
They added that other necessary car maintenance needed this summer are – 1. Cooling System Check-Up The cooling system is your engine’s primary defense against overheating. Have the following inspected; 2. Radiator condition; 3. Coolant level and quality; 4- Radiator hoses; 5. Water pump; 6. Cooling fan operation – A neglected cooling system may lead to severe engine overheating and costly repairs; 7. Engine Oil Inspection — High temperatures can cause engine oil to thin out faster. Regular oil changes help protect engine components from excessive wear and overheating.; 8. Battery Inspection — Extreme heat can shorten battery life. Have the battery terminals cleaned and charging system checked to avoid sudden breakdowns; 9. Tire Pressure — Monitoring Hot pavement and rising temperatures increase tire pressure. Overinflated or worn-out tires may lead to blowouts. Always maintain proper tire pressure and inspect tire condition regularly; 10. Brake System Check — Summer travel often means longer drives. Make sure your brake pads, brake fluid, and rotors are in good condition for safety. Prevention is Better Than Repair.
“Most major automotive problems start from neglected minor issues. Regular preventive maintenance not only saves money but also ensures safety, reliability, and peace of mind on the road. This summer, don’t wait for your vehicle to overheat or lose performance before taking action. Proper maintenance — especially EGR cleaning and cooling system care — can make a huge difference in your vehicle’s overall health and efficiency. Your car works hard every day. Give it the proper care it deserves,” both Warren Lim Latoy and Joel Torres pointed out.