Preventive Maintenance: The Key Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
Posted on March 19, 2024
Like choosing the right fuel, choosing the best oil for your car, truck, or SUV is crucial. While these requirements are available at your oil change shop, external factors like temperature, elevation, mileage, and vehicle age may also influence the choice of oil grade.
Trusting the expertise of factory-certified mechanics at your nearby dealership guarantees a personalized approach considering your vehicle's model and environmental factors. This blog post explores the benefits of adhering to a regular oil change routine as a cornerstone of preventative maintenance.
How To Know When to Change Oil in Car
Unlike in the past, where a universal schedule was applied, today's cars and trucks have unique specifications for optimal performance. Much like selecting the right fuel, choosing the best oil for your vehicle is essential.
Fortunately, each Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) provides clear requirements for every model, readily accessible at your oil change shop. Additionally, external factors like extreme temperatures, elevation, excessive mileage, and your vehicle's age can influence the oil grade.
10 Benefits of Changing Oil in Car
Here are the top seven reasons to prioritize regular oil changes:
1. Enhanced Engine Efficiency
Regular oil changes will keep your car engine clean and improve efficiency. Over time, oil accumulates dirt and debris, which leads to sludge formation inside the engine.
Changing the oil at proper intervals can decrease engine efficiency and output.
2. Improved Gas Mileage (MPG)
An efficiently running engine provides the best gas mileage. Keeping the engine clean and free of particles is crucial for optimal performance. Fresh oil enhances engine performance, leading to better fuel efficiency, which ultimately results in significant cost savings.
3. Extended Engine Life
Dirty engine oil with accumulated crud increases friction and accelerates wear and tear. A cleaner engine runs smoothly, functions efficiently, and has a longer lifespan.
4. Environmentally Friendly
As oil breaks down over time, it releases gases, contributing to sludge build-up inside the engine. The emitted gases contain harmful hydrocarbons that are detrimental to the environment. Regular oil changes help reduce harmful emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment.
5. Engine Protection
Regular cleaning shields the engine from excess wear, friction, and sludge build-up. Changing the oil consistently safeguards the engine, which promotes flawless and effortless operation.
6. Cooling of Engine Components
The high-speed movement of engine parts generates considerable heat. Fresh oil provides proper lubrication, which minimizes friction and prevents engine components from overheating.
7. Trouble-free Emissions Test
A smoothly running engine ensures efficient performance and better mileage, facilitating easy passage through the vehicle emissions test.
8. Prevents Major Repairs
Consistently changing your car's oil is a proactive step that can help you avoid significant repairs in the future. Clean oil ensures engine components are properly lubricated, reducing friction and wear.
By preventing excessive wear and tear, you minimize the risk of major breakdowns and extend the overall lifespan of your vehicle.
9. Preserves Resale Value
Maintaining a consistent oil change schedule is not just about current performance; it's an investment in the future resale value of your car. Potential buyers are often attracted to well-maintained vehicles, and a documented history of regular oil changes signals responsible ownership.
10. Reduced Engine Deposits
Changing your car's oil at recommended intervals helps in reducing engine deposits. Over time, oil can accumulate contaminants and debris, which leads to the formation of deposits that can hinder engine performance.
Regular oil changes keep your car engine clean and free from harmful deposits, which promotes optimal functioning and efficiency. This, in turn, contributes to a smoother driving experience and prolonged engine life.
Different Types of Car Oil
Choosing the right car oil is crucial, whether done by a mechanic or yourself. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations under the hood or in your owner's manual. Motor oils vary by weight and viscosity, which fall into three main categories: synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional.
1. Synthetic
Geared towards high-performance vehicles, synthetic oil is a chemically enhanced option with a higher cost. Its benefits include extended lifespan, cleaner engine performance, and superior viscosity maintenance.
2. Semi-synthetic
Combining some of the enhanced properties of synthetic oil at a more affordable price point, semi-synthetic oil provides a balanced option for those seeking improved performance without the premium cost.
3. Conventional
The traditional choice that has stood the test of time, conventional oil, is recommended for older cars by manufacturers. Despite its long history of use, it remains a reliable and cost-effective option for specific vehicle models.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
The best thing you can do when deciding how often to bring your car in for an oil change is to check the manual for the car. Manufacturers recommend intervals based on the mechanics of the car.
It can be anywhere from 3 months to 6 months. That said, when it comes to oil change maintenance, you can follow a general rule of thumb determined by the type of oil you use.
- Synthetic: Change every six months or 10,000 km.
- Semi-synthetic: Change every five months or 8,000 km.
- Conventional: Change every three months or 5,000 km.
Regular oil changes contribute significantly to the longevity and optimal performance of your vehicle.
Improve Your Car’s Performance with Regular Oil Changes at CarHub
Prioritizing regular oil changes is a cornerstone of effective preventative maintenance for your vehicle. At CarHub, we want to enhance your driving experience and the lifespan of your car.
If you are due for an oil change or want to schedule regular maintenance, visit our service center and let our expert technicians take care of your car.