Importance of Regular Oil Changes
Mechanics the world over have been telling us to get our vehicle’s oil changed at specific intervals — but has anyone ever told you why? You’re likely tempted to skip your next oil change because you feel your vehicle is running fine, you just don’t have the time, or you don’t really drive that much. But if you understand why it’s important, you’ll know why you should think twice about skipping or even delaying your next oil change.
Oil Is Key for a Well-Performing Engine
Oil is for your car what water is for our body. It’s what keeps your engine lubricated and running smoothly. It reduces friction and cuts down on wear and tear on your engine — all of which can cause damage in the long run — creating costly repairs.
Oil Changes Replace Any Oil You’ve Used
Every engine has an oil level where the engine works most efficient. Oil is burned off as you drive and can evaporate under extreme heat — thus causing your oil level to drop. Low oil levels can lead to issues with your motor, creating your vehicle to run poorly. Check your engine oil regularly. Even if your oil level has just dropped slightly, it’s still vital to keep it at the optimum level which makes your engine run smoothly.
Dirty Oil Can Buildup in Your Engine
Even if you don’t drive that often or see your oil level drop, changing your oil at regular intervals keeps the oil clean. With both kms driven and over time, the oil will get dirty and eventually breakdown — and you don’t want this dirt and buildup running through your engine.
Your Vehicle Needs to Be Monitored for Low Oil Levels
Vehicle oil levels will drop naturally with use, but if your oil levels have dropped significantly, it’s best to find this out early. Low oil levels can indicate leaks or the fact your engine is burning more oil than it should. When your oil is checked regularly, these issues can be found and fixed before extreme damage is caused.
You’ll Help the Environment!
Running your vehicle with old oil adds more emissions to the exhaust, which not only creates unnecessary strain on your engine, but it contributes to increased air pollution.
In some areas, it’s legally required for your car to pass an emission test every year to continue being insured. Regular oil changes will help your vehicle pass these tests. But even if these tests don’t exist where you live, change your oil regularly for the environment’s sake!
Clean Oil Helps Reduce Your Emissions
When your vehicle is running on clean oil, it produces fewer exhaust emissions. The longer you drive your car with old oil, the more emissions you’ll likely add to the exhaust, which will create a rough running engine over time.
Your Gas Mileage Will Likely Improve
When your engine is running smoothly, it uses fuel more efficiently. So, keeping your oil fresh, clean, and topped up means less time and money spent at the gas station.
Bottom Line
Doing regular oil changes extends the life of your vehicle and helps reduce air pollution. If you’re not sure how often you should have your oil changed, check your owner’s manual or contact us at Enviro Lube. And if time is an issue or you don’t want to be without your car for a good portion of the day, remember that Enviro Lube offers 15-minute, drive-thru oil changes for all types of vehicles. And we include a 21-point inspection with every service, so you know that your car is in tip-top shape when you drive away. Contact us for more information.
