It’s one of the top things every car owner should know. Your oil and oil filter need to be changed every three months or every 3,000 miles. As oil and vehicle efficiencies have improved, those recommended numbers may vary depending on the vehicle you drive. But why is it so important to change out the oil? Can’t you just add more when the level gets low and keep driving?
What Is Engine Oil?
Engine oil is a mixture of base oil such as crude petroleum with other added chemicals. The primary purpose of oil is to lubricate engine parts, but it also serves to reduce engine wear and to cool and clean the engine. Modern engine oils have several additives such as corrosion and foam inhibitors that help make the oil more efficient.
Factory-produced synthetic oils offer additional benefits such as resisting breakdown and better withstanding extreme temperatures. While synthetic oil is typically more expensive than its traditional counterpart, the many benefits can make the cost worthwhile.
Why Does Oil Need To Be Changed?
As oil cycles throughout your engine, it picks up particles of metal, soot, and dirt. Your oil filter serves to remove these contaminants from the oil, but over time it eventually fills up. A clogged oil filter can cause low oil pressure, making your engine lag and spilling black smoke from your exhaust pipe. Since oil also serves to keep the engine cool, your engine may begin to overheat.
Even if you don’t drive frequently, your engine oil will still degrade over time. Your car needs to run for several minutes in order to burn off excess moisture from the oil. If moisture builds up in your oil, it can form an acid or a thick, gelatinous sludge. If your oil shows any signs of separation or haziness, it’s time for an oil change. Changing the oil and oil filter frequently ensures that your engine can run smoothly, cooly, and efficiently.
If you treat your engine well, it can keep running smoothly for a lifetime. Schedule your next oil and filter change with Sunny Automotive. Our certified master technicians are here to make sure that you get the best service possible at an affordable price. Give us a call today!