Is Getting an Oil Change Really That Important?

If there's one thing that car drivers know about their automobiles it is that they have to get an oil change on a regular basis. Many drivers may not know why that is, but they know it's important. But is it? What can happen if you don't? Is it just one of those things the automotive industry has concocted to get more money out of you? Unfortunately, while there may be many forms of maintenance that aren't as important as previously believed (the tune-up, for example), this is not one of them. Getting the lubrication in your car changed out on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do for your vehicle. Here are some of the reasons why.

Extend Longevity

Unless you're the type of person who trades their car in for a new model every couple of years and simply lives with the fact that they will always have a monthly payment, you might want to get some years out of your vehicle. This means doing everything you can to extend the lifespan of the engine. The oil change is a very inexpensive way of doing just that. Whether you do it yourself or entrust it to a mechanic, it can keep your engine performing smoothly and prevent disaster from striking early. If your vehicle is under some kind of warranty, you may be required to show proof of this maintenance when filing a claim.

Sludge

You can't turn on the television without seeing a commercial showing you the effects of engine sludge. But there's so much misinformation in television ads that you probably didn't pay much attention. Sludge is a real problem, though, and it can easily happen when you don't get an oil change frequently enough. The fluid collects dirt and debris over time. When that happens, acidity builds up and viscosity is lost. As such, damage can be done to the intricate moving parts of your engine. Often times, a sludgy engine has to be replaced, which can run into the thousands of dollars.

Efficiency

You never want to make your car's engine work harder than it has to. But sometimes, driving conditions demand that you get a bit more out of your workhorse. If you've been getting a regular oil change, you should be able to depend on your engine to rise to the occasion when you have to travel through undesirable conditions. If you haven't, however, this could be the straw that breaks the camel's back. Keep your engine happy, and it will come through with efficiency and aplomb.