You probably know that you’re supposed to take your car in for an oil change periodically, but do you know how often and why? Many car owners have an abstract idea that oil changes are necessary, but they’re not sure why, or just assume it’s a way for manufacturers and mechanics to make more money. That’s not the case. Here’s why it’s so important to get regular oil changes as a part of your routine vehicle maintenance in Las Vegas, NV.
Why does my car need oil changes?
Your car’s oil is akin to the engine’s lifeblood, and if you fail to change it regularly, you could seriously damage your engine. Here’s what the oil does:
- Lubricates your engine: As the engine runs, it generates a lot of heat. This is normal, but too much heat can cause the engine to overheat and break down. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts, which in turn reduces friction. Since friction causes heat, insufficient oil (or old, dirty oil) can increase the heat and cause issues. Regular oil changes ensure that your engine runs smoothly and is less susceptible to overheating.
- Extends your engine lifespan: The engine is the most expensive part of your car, and if it breaks down, you could spend thousands replacing it—or you might need to get rid of your vehicle altogether. One of the best ways to keep your engine in good shape longer is to maintain consistent oil changes.
- Reduces engine wear and tear: As your vehicle uses its oil, it picks up dirt and other contaminant particles. These not only make the oil appear dirty, but they also increase the friction in the engine. That can damage the engine’s moving parts and cause it to overheat. You can reduce your engine wear and tear (and the resulting sludge buildup) by changing your oil on a regular basis. Clean oil is free of particulate matter, so it won’t scrape the moving parts or cause additional friction.
- Helps improve your gas mileage: Finally, changing your oil improves your gas mileage. If you drive long distances on a consistent basis, you’ll immediately notice the difference when you get regular oil changes. The easier it is for your engine to function, the less gas it needs to do its job—and the more money you’ll save in return.
How often do I need to change my oil?
You should check your owners’ manual to see what your manufacturer recommends. In general, most vehicles need fresh oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles driven. It’s a relatively inexpensive service that will make a huge difference in your car’s functionality, so don’t go over 5,000 miles without seeing your mechanic.
Getting your oil changed is a snap when you work with a reputable mechanic like Qwest Automotive Service. We offer oil changes along with a full variety of other vehicle maintenance services in Las Vegas, NV. Whether you need complex computer work or a simple fluid change, we can help. Call us today or stop by to book your appointment.