Regular Oil Changes Are Important for Protecting Your Engine

Getting your oil changed regularly is important for maintaining the health of your car and protecting your engine. Your car’s engine is a complex and elaborate machine, a symphony of moving parts all working together to drive you down the road. And just like any complex system, it needs proper lubrication to function smoothly and efficiently.  If you need an oil change, make an appointment at a Russ Darrow service facility today!

Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, which can damage your engine if it is not changed regularly. While this oil change maintenance may be inconvenient, ignoring this simple task can significantly impact your engine’s performance. Fresh oil helps cool the engine by absorbing heat. As the engine uses the oil, it loses its ability to cool effectively, leading to overheating and potentially severe damage. By changing your oil regularly, you can be sure your engine will stay cool and operate at the right temperature, reducing the risk of overheating and prolonging its life. Most manufacturers and the Russ Darrow service team suggest getting the oil changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Remember that this can vary depending on your vehicle and driving habits. If you often drive in stop-and-go traffic or do a lot of short-distance driving, you may need to get oil changed more often. Ask the team what they think about oil change intervals for your car, truck, minivan, or SUV, and let us help you stay on track with regular oil changes to protect your engine year-round.

If you see any of these warning signs, it’s time for an oil change: dark, dirty oil on the dipstick, low oil level, the check engine light or oil change light turns on, louder than usual engine noise, or you smell burning oil. Reasons why you should regularly change your oil for engine protection include lubrication. Without lubrication, the metal grinding against metal would quickly lead to unwanted wear and tear, eventually causing catastrophic engine damage. Cooling – as the engine works, it generates massive heat. Oil circulates through the engine, absorbing some of this heat and carrying it away to the oil cooler. This helps prevent overheating and protects vital engine components from damage. Cleaning – Over time, combustion byproducts, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside the engine. Oil acts as a cleaning agent, carrying these contaminants to the oil filter, which traps them and keeps the oil circulating clean. As oil ages, it becomes saturated with contaminants, losing its ability to clean the engine effectively. Oil also helps protect engine components from corrosion by creating a barrier between the metal surfaces and corrosive elements like acid and moisture. Old oil can become acidic itself, actually contributing to corrosion. And the most noticeable is the fuel savings. Clean, fresh oil lessens friction within the engine. Less friction means less energy wasted, which translates to improved fuel economy.

If your car is running poorly, it’s been a while since your last oil change, or you notice any of the above signs, schedule an appointment at Russ Darrow. We’re here for all automotive needs, from tire pressure checks, rotations and balancing, belts and hose inspections, electrical repair, and oil changes to protect your engine. Regular oil changes are an investment for your engine’s long-term health and performance. By following a regular oil change maintenance schedule at Russ Darrow, you can ensure that your engine remains properly lubricated, cooled, and protected, ultimately saving you money and extending the life of your vehicle.