Why Are Oil Changes Important?
If you own a car, there is a high probability that you’ve had an oil change. Maybe you had it done because it was already scheduled, or because your car was starting to struggle a bit while driving. No matter the reason, we are all familiar with the process, and have been told that it is important to the overall health of our vehicles.
Engine oil is sometimes said to be the blood of the car. Oil provides three key functions in modern internal combustion engines. First, it helps keep every component in the engine running smoothly. Secondly, it helps regulate temperatures in the engine, a place where thousands of tiny explosions happen regularly creating a tremendous amount of heat and pressure. Finally, it helps to prevent the buildup of carbon deposits and other substances in the engine.
How Often & What Type of Oil Do You Need?
How often should you change your oil, and what type of oil should you use? Well, it really depends on how frequently you drive, what type of car you have, and what the recommended oil type for your engine is. This is where your user manual may come in handy (how to find your car owner’s manual online). It will tell you the best type of oil to use (synthetic or standard), and may even offer recommendations from the car manufacturer. Additionally, it is best to use the proper oil viscosity recommended by the auto manufacturer, as it will protect the engine at hot and cold startups. Luckily, getting your oil changed is relatively inexpensive and can be done with ease by your preferred car care professional.
Related Article: 5 Ways Oil Changes Promote Engine Longevity
Recommended Maintenance Intervals
Oil changes are generally recommended when a certain amount of time has passed, or when a particular mileage has been surpassed. The most recognized and commonly suggested interval is around 3,000 miles or every three months. But since not everyone drives the same amount, it is best to trust your odometer and not the calendar. If one car spends a majority of the time sitting, it will not require an oil change as soon as another. Your driving style can influence the frequency of oil changes, too. If you drive your car hard – intense accelerations, fast stops, generally high speeds – there is more wear and tear on not only the vehicle overall but on the oil. It breaks down more quickly and its ability to protect your engine degrades.
Related Article: Keeping Up On Oil Changes
AAMCO Colorado – Taking the Pain Out of Your Oil Change
Your car is important to you; therefore, it is important to us. We’d be happy to answer all of your oil changing questions or schedule an appointment at your local AAMCO Colorado location. Let us help you take care of the little things, before they become major issues! Call us today at 1 (877) 79-AAMCO.