Importance of Regular Oil Changes

Importance of Regular Oil Changes
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Car owners are told to give their cars regular oil changes. While many drivers oblige by this advice, understanding why oil changes are so critical is lesser-known information. A lot can go wrong if engine oil isn’t replaced at regular intervals, from decreased fuel economy to engine overheating. A simple oil change can save you thousands in costly repairs. Here at Astorg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we want our customers to be well-versed in the maintenance their vehicle needs. So please continue reading below to learn more about why oil changes are so important!
Provides Lubrication
Arguably the most important job of engine oil is providing lubrication to the engine’s internals. All of the internal components inside your vehicle’s engine, including the valves, pistons, crankshafts, and more, are moving thousands of times per minute. All of this movement creates a lot of friction, and you don’t need to be a scientist to know that where there’s friction, there’s heat. Of course, engine heat is normal for a vehicle. In fact, an engine’s normal operating temperature ranges from 195-220 degrees. However, this can go much higher if the engine oil is old and dirty. This is because oil has lubricating properties that prevent friction and keep the temperature of the internals in check. As oil ages, it breaks down and cannot provide the level of lubrication needed to prevent overheating. If left untreated, excessive heating of the engine can be fatal to it.
Extends Engine Life
A clean engine is a healthy engine, and clean oil keeps your engine clean. When the oil that is running through your engine is fresh, the engine starts easier and runs smoother. This smooth running goes along with the proper lubrication it’s getting from the clean oil. Without it, the engine can start to run rough, leaving you with excessive engine noise and decreased power. Additionally, if the oil breakdown is left untreated, it can cause permanent damage to the engine’s internal components, as the metal can begin to wear down.
Improves Fuel Economy
No matter how much or how little you drive, chances are you keep an eye on your miles per gallon, especially these days. Did you know that the little gas pump light on your dashboard will illuminate more often when you’re in need of an oil change? As we mentioned above, a clean engine is a healthy engine. Furthermore, a healthy engine is an efficient engine. With the lubrication that fresh oil provides, the engine is put under less stress to provide the power being requested, thus, using less fuel.
Auto Service Center in Parkersburg, WV
We hope that this page has helped clear up any confusion about oil changes and why they’re so important for your vehicle. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an oil change with our service center, please feel free to contact the experienced service team here at Astorg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. If your vehicle is due for an oil change, you can schedule an appointment right here on our website using our online service scheduler. We look forward to serving you!