Nowadays, we’ve all heard of auto care, and the importance of having the oil in our car changed on a regular basis. In fact, when we get our car serviced, they put a sticker conveniently on the upper left side of your windshield, letting you know when you should have your oil changed based on mileage. 3,000 miles between oil changes used to be the recommended number – now many mechanics are recommending between 3,000 and 5,000 miles, depending on the make of the vehicle. And if your car is using synthetic oil, that number can be stretched to an even higher number. Always remember to check the manufacturer’s manual for the recommendations for your vehicle.
The amount of time between changes is a factor, too. If you don’t do a lot of driving, then you’ll want to pay attention to the date on that sticker. But if you’re commuting to or from work or simply love embarking on road trips, then the mileage is going to be more important for you to pay attention to.
That being said, have you ever wondered what actually happens if you don’t change your oil or go in for regular maintenance service? Let’s take a quick look at some of the issues that can arise from failing to change and maintain your vehicle’s oil regularly.
Potential Engine Damage
The oil (often referred to as the lifeblood of your vehicle) in your car is there for a reason – to lubricate the engine and moving parts. Over time, the engine oil breaks down and gets dirty, losing its ability to do its job properly. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the engine, as well as decreased performance. In extreme cases, it can even lead to engine failure.
Increased Fuel Consumption
Dirty oil makes your car’s engine work harder, which in turn uses up more fuel. Not only is this bad for your wallet, but it’s also bad for the environment.
Excessive Engine Noise
A car that’s due for an oil change will often start to make more noise than usual. This is because the dirty oil isn’t able to properly lubricate the engine, leading to increased friction and vibration. This is not a sound that you or your mechanic want to hear.
Overheating
Dirt and debris leads to dirty oil, which can cause your car to overheat from the heat of the engine. This is because the oil breaks down and thickens, making it harder for it to circulate properly. In extreme cases, this can lead to extreme engine damage or even failure.
Shortened Engine Life
All of the above factors – engine damage, increased fuel consumption, excessive engine noise, and overheating – can lead to a shortened engine life. In other words, by not changing your oil on a regular basis, you could be drastically reducing the lifespan of your car’s engine. And, I don’t know if you’ve checked the prices on complete engine replacements lately, but that’s a significant cost that most individuals are simply not prepared to pay. It is sometimes so expensive it makes better financial sense to scrap the vehicle instead of replacing the engine.
It’s much simpler to take your vehicle in at regular intervals – every 3,000 miles or six months – so they can change your oil, check the oil filter, and ensure that your vehicle is running smoothly and safely.
The Moral of the Story: Change Your Oil Regularly!
The bottom line is this: changing your oil regularly is one of the best things you can do for your car. It’s easy, inexpensive, and could save you a lot of money in the long run. So don’t wait until your engine starts making strange noises – if the sticker on your windshield indicates that it’s time for an oil change, then call your favorite St. Peters Auto Shop HI-TECH Automotive to book your oil change today!