(Newswire.net — September 28, 2018) — Like it or not, many drivers underestimate the important of having proper oil in their vehicles, and will often ignore that little red light that says their car needs an oil change. Motor oil is one of the key lubricants that make your car run smoothly, and not changing it could have dire consequences for your vehicle. Here’s why you should be on top of your motor oil, and change it as frequently as is necessary.
1. Oil Lubricates The Vital Components In Your Engine
Car engines have many moving parts that we as drivers just don’t ever see. As these parts move around and rub against each other, that force and friction creates instances of heat. Oil forms a thin oil bearing between metal parts which ensures that the internal parts of the vehicle are working together without incurring damage or getting overheated. Over time, the engine oil will inevitably break down from heat and wear out. When this happens, the oil becomes less effective at lubricating your engine, and therefore absorbs heat less effectively. Old oil can cause numerous problems with your engine, and can even result in permanent damage. This is why oil plays such an important role in the function of your car’s powerplant, the engine.
2. Oil Change Intervals Depend On How Much You Drive
Oil is degraded the more you drive, and most experts recommend changing your oil every 5,000-10,000 km. However, you may be able to extend that if you use a high-mileage (HM) motor oil. According to Reader’s Digest: “HM oils (about 75¢ more per litre) are formulated to handle the extra load and are well worth the money. To get even greater protection, add a high-mileage oil filter, too. High-mileage filters contain a capsule of additive gel that dissolves slowly over a 5,000-kilometre period.” Used together, both of these oils add less than $7 to the cost of an oil change, so they’re a great investment to keep your vehicle running longer.
3. Not All Oil Is Created Equal
If you drive your car during the cold weather months, it may be more beneficial to use a synthetic motor oil. According to Net News Ledger: “In extreme weather, synthetic oil holds up much better than conventional oil. Because it is synthetic and contains no organic compounds, it flows much more effectively throughout your engine components in extreme weather.” During the winter, regular oil can become more viscous, requiring you to warm up your car for longer. If you don’t warm your car up, you could risk damaging the internal components of your car, so it’s a good idea to go with a synthetic oil for winter.
Maintaining your oil is one of the many ways that you can be a responsible vehicle owner, and save yourself some money at the mechanic. If you have been a safe and responsible driver for years, you may be entitled to a discount from your insurance company. If your insurance company is not satisfying your current needs, compare your car insurance rate to other policies on the market to ensure that your driving record and routine maintenance is being rewarded appropriately.