You simply cannot afford to ignore oil leaks. However, finding out what causes engine oil leaks doesn’t always require the expertise of a trained mechanic. Simply put, don’t put off doing some research because doing so could harm your engine.
One of the most frequent reasons for engine damage is oil leaks. They quickly degrade the engine, necessitating costly repairs. Even worse, engine oil leaks put people’s safety in danger. They might cause the driver to lose control of the car. Due to this, it is crucial to identify the primary causes of engine oil leaks and take steps to fix them.
One of the significant ways to prevent oil leaks is through regular oil changes.
Although changing the oil is an essential aspect of car maintenance, it is not the only thing you should do.
A simple oil change can frequently make a world of difference. But why is getting your oil changed so crucial? We’ll look at what it can do for the health of your car and a few other ways to keep it in good working order.
Importance of Oil Change
The best way to ensure that your engine runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible for as long as possible is to check and change the oil in your car on a regular basis.
Oil’s function in a car is to keep the engine running smoothly literally. An engine contains numerous moving parts, and if they were left to rub against one another without lubrication, they would overheat and result in permanent damage.
Oil lessens friction between these components, allowing for the efficient and smooth operation of the engine.
Here are the four reasons to get an oil change:
Better Gas Mileage: If you frequently travel long distances by car, you know the significance of gas mileage. But did you know that the quality of your oil and your gas mileage are related? Regular oil changes will only contribute to preserving excellent gas mileage. On the other hand, your car’s gas mileage will decrease, and you’ll have to fill up your tank more frequently if you don’t change your oil when it needs to be changed.
Reduces engine wear and buildup: By having your car’s oil changed on a regular basis, you’ll be doing your part to keep it healthy. Oil changes help to get rid of any extra dirt that might build up in your engine from use. Another common car development is sludge, which an oil change will completely eliminate for a more effective engine. Oil changes essentially keep your engine clean. An effective engine, therefore, operates smoothly.
Lubricates the engine: To keep your car running smoothly, the engine will generate a lot of heat. Engine heat is quite common, but you never want your engine to get too hot. Your engine is more prone to overheating without routine oil changes. The secret is always to check that your engine is adequately lubricated and free of any potential for drying out and causing a variety of issues.
Longer Engine Life: Regular oil changes will help your engine last longer and maintain its value. Your engine will last a long time if you get better gas mileage, maintain proper engine lubrication, and keep sludge and dirt particles at bay. Even though you can’t always stop problems from happening to a car, regular oil changes can undoubtedly help to ensure that the engine life of your vehicle is increased.
Intervals of Oil Change
Older Vehicles Oil Change Intervals
Older vehicles typically have two maintenance schedules, one for “normal” operation and another for “severe service,” with oil change intervals based on mileage. The latter category entails driving your car while under one or more of the subsequent circumstances:
- Mainly short journeys (5 miles or less)
- Climates that are incredibly dusty, hot, or cold
- Driving that is constantly in motion
- Lugging around hefty loads or pulling a trailer
Maintain your vehicle using the stricter schedule if its usage falls within the owner’s manual’s definition of severe service.
Newer Car Oil Change Intervals
Oil-life monitoring systems are standard in most newer cars, and they automatically determine when an oil change is necessary and alert you with a warning on the instrument panel. Early simple systems relied on time and mileage, but modern advanced designs examine the actual driving conditions of the vehicle to predict when the oil will start to deteriorate. In fact, “severe service” recommendations are often completely removed from owner’s and maintenance manuals for newer vehicles because the oil-life monitoring system automatically reduces the oil change interval when it detects heavy-duty operation.
On newer engines, where oil changes are less frequent, it’s crucial to check the oil level monthly and top it off as necessary. While many engines only use a few quarts of oil before they need to be changed, some can use up to a quart every 600 to 700 miles. In addition, your new car warranty will not cover engine wear or damage brought on by low oil levels, so maintaining proper oil levels can save you money on expensive auto repairs. Notably, even if the maintenance alert has not turned on, most automakers advise getting an oil change every 12 months if you don’t put many miles on your car.
Personal oil changes can be a hassle, but they are a necessary task that needs to be carried out. Finding local oil change coupons can help you save money and ensure that a qualified, experienced technician changes your oil.
