Have You Been Putting Off Your Oil Change? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t

Getting your oil changed might seem like another item on an endless to-do list, but it’s important to protect your investment. Your car depends on having fresh oil to mitigate friction. At their most basic level, engines generate high heat and a lot of friction, and oil helps lubricate the moving parts and ensure they don’t wear down before their lifespan is complete. It also helps cool the parts and removes engine sludge. Regularly changing your oil also contributes to your car’s fuel efficiency, so a little maintenance can go a long way. Even more important is the fact that if you don’t change your car’s oil, that could affect your car warranty.

Basically, oil gets dirty. Over time, your car’s oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dust, dirt and debris from the engine. The more debris there is in your oil, the harder it is for it to run.

Check your car owner’s manual to find out what the mileage recommendation is for your specific vehicle. As a general rule of thumb, your car’s oil needs to be changed at least once per 3,000 to 5,000 miles or three months that you drive. Some cars can go longer in between—up to 10,000 miles—but older cars should stick to the 3,000 miles or three-month rule. The worst kind of driving for your engine is short distances at less than highway speeds.

Here are some other tips and tricks to keep in mind when you realize it’s time for an oil change:

• Dashboard lights: Some newer cars have an oil life monitoring system, which tracks your usage and determines a good time for oil changes. This is useful, but not necessarily urgent.
• Checking your oil level: Check your oil level when your car is cold and parked on level ground. Find the dipstick and pull it out, wipe off any oil and then stick it back in. Remove it one more time and look to see where the oil levels are located between the MIN and MAX guides. If it’s low, it’s time for an oil change.
• Oil disposal: Never throw your used oil in the trash or down the drain—that’s a major environmental hazard. Find a secure container to put it in (and if any falls on the ground, it can be easily absorbed by kitty litter). Take it to an oil change facility or auto parts store like Miller Brakes and Mufflers, Inc. in Gary, IN—or just have us take care of the entire process from start to finish.

Take care of your engine with Miller Brakes and Mufflers, Inc.

Contact the team at Miller Brakes and Mufflers, Inc for your next oil change in Gary, IN. We are the area’s family owned and operated go-to source for auto repair services. Our friendly and skilled ASE-certified mechanics are ready to assist you with everything from oil changes in Gary, IN to complete engine rebuilding. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment, or just swing by for a fast oil change!

Categorised in: Oil Change

This post was written by Writer