Quick, when is the last time you changed your oil? It’s probably been a while, right? Most of us know how important a regular oil change is, but it is just one of those things that is routinely forgotten or ignored. However, not changing the oil when necessary can have a drastic affect on a vehicle.
Why Oil Changes Matter
To extend the life your car
Oil changes do a variety of different things to help your car have a longer life. By lubricating the engine, fresh oil decreases the friction there. Putting in new oil will also take out any pollutants in the vehicle’s system.
To increase gas mileage
If you do not have enough oil in your car, or the wrong type, your gas mileage will suffer. This will end up costing you more money every time you need to fill up.
What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Oil?
A lot of bad things can occur when you neglect to change your oil, including:
Wear
Oil that has been sitting for too long in an engine starts breaking down, which causes it to lose its ability to properly lubricate moving parts. As a result, those parts start to wear down. Ultimately, this can shorten the life of an engine.
Clogs
Oil that is allowed to stay too long leaves carbon deposits and sludge, which leads to many problems. The oil pump and passageways can be clogged and, as a result, the oil pressure will drop and less oil will be able to get to the engine. Eventually, this can result in engine damage.
Corrosion
When oil breaks down, the chemicals in the oil have a reaction with heat and oxygen, which forms acids and corrosive compounds. These compounds create sludge and cause varnish to build up on internal engine parts. In addition, they also interfere with the clearance between moving parts, which leads to more oil consumption, seized pistons, and sticking valves.
Decreased performance
Over time, those carbon deposits can clog the Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve and the Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve. This can cause the engine to run hotter, which wears down moving parts and increases emissions. Additionally, there could also be a reduction in engine power.
Thermal breakdown
Thermal breakdown is a process in which the heat of the engine weakens the thickness of the oil. Old oil is not able to maintain adequate thickness and will not cushion internal moving parts as it is supposed to. Thin oil gets by rings and seals and will burn up in the combustion chamber, which results in the use of more oil as well as smoke coming out of the exhaust.
Getting a regular oil change is one of the easiest things you can do to maintain the life of your car. They are usually very affordable and will prevent you from costly repairs down the road. For a quick and easy oil change, come in to see the pros as Xpress Lube.
