An Oil Change is More Important Than You Think

Although it may seem like a minute issue, getting a routine oil change does wonders for a vehicle. Ignoring this important fact, however, can bring about more problems than some would imagine. For instance, what if someone just bought a new car and they poured all of their attention into the aesthetics. All they cared about was how their automobile looked.

"I can't wait to get my new paint job," said Jimmy, a recent college graduate.

His best friend Mike looked at him surprisingly as they sat in a local restaurant, watching a few college basketball games.

"Jim, you just bought the car," he said. "Therefore, it doesn't need a new paint job. How about you just enjoy what you have and make sure you take care of the things that will actually keep it running."

"Yeah, I know," said Jimmy. "It's just that the grayish color doesn't do it for me. I think I want it to be black."

"You're nuts Jim," said Mike as they both laughed and continued to watch the games.

A few weeks later Jimmy called his friend Mike to ask for some advice.

"Do you think I should just get the custom wood grained dash kit or just hold off on that and get custom seat covers?"

"Honestly Jim, I think you are wasting your money," said Mike. "Your car is perfectly fine, but you do what you want. Like I said before, don't neglect the important things."

A little over a year passed and Jimmy and Mike were getting ready to go on a road trip.

"So, did you get that oil change I've been telling you about?" asked Mike.

"Nah, not yet," said Jimmy. "I will do it some other time, besides it's just an oil change."

Mike sighed and shook his head in slight disgust.

"I guess Jim," he said. "I guess your last oil change will be enough for now."

"Last one," said Jimmy. "I've never gotten one before. Like I said, it's really not that important."

Mike turned to Jimmy in disbelief.

"Wait. So, you have never gotten one since you've had this car?" asked Mike. "I don't think it's a good idea for us to be on the road until that's done Jim."

"Oh, relax and enjoy the ride," Jimmy said. "You worry about everything."

About an hour later, the car began acting up. So, they decided to pull over on the side of the road.

"I can't believe this," said Jimmy.

They contacted a tow truck and had them bring the car to the nearest car repair shop.

"So, what do you think is wrong with my car, mister?" asked Jimmy. "It's not even 2-years-old."

"Well, it looks like your oil is the culprit," said the repairman. "It's done some real bad damage to your engine. When is the last time you got it changed?"

Jimmy slowly looked over at his friend Mike as Mike gave him the "I told you so" look.