We know the most crucial part of buying a car lies in its maintenance. But what if we tell you that changing oils regularly can be an instrumental part of your car maintenance journey?
Yes, regular oil changes improve your engine's performance, extend its longevity and help your car achieve its peak gas mileage.
The benefits of oil changes are vast and will help you care for your car better. Let's understand it better:
- Enhancing Engine Performance
Regular oil changes do more than keep your engine clean; they also boost performance. Think of engine oil as a bloodstream that carries dirt and particles into your car's engine. Over time, these contaminants lead to the formation of sludge inside the engine. Failure to make timely oil changes can significantly impact your engine's efficiency and overall performance. - Improving Fuel Efficiency
A well-maintained engine is the key to getting the best gas mileage on the road. To achieve this, keeping your engine clean and free from debris is essential. When engines operate smoothly with fresh oil, their performance improves and becomes more fuel-efficient. This leads to better gas mileage and significant cost savings. - Extending Engine Lifespan
Dirty oil often contains grime, which increases friction and accelerates wear and tear. A cleaner engine runs more smoothly, operates efficiently, and tends to have a longer life. - Environmental Responsibility
Over time, heat breaks down engine oil and releases harmful gases. This process also contributes to the accumulation of sludge within the engine. As a result, the emissions from your vehicle may contain toxic hydrocarbons that harm the environment. Regularly changing your vehicle's oil reduces your environmental impact and helps decrease pollution. - Protecting Your Engine
Routine maintenance protects your car's engine, guarding it against excessive wear and tear, friction, and sludge buildup. This ensures that your engine performs effortlessly and smoothly.
We've learnt the benefits of changing the car oil regularly; now, let us also understand the signs you should look for in your car to know the optimal time to proceed with the car's oil change.
1)Check the engine or oil change light
Your car has an early warning system to detect oil-related issues. The most obvious sign of your oil will come from the car itself. When the oil level is critically low, the oil change light on your dashboard will come on as a sign.
You can also perform the dipstick test:
If the oil level crosses the line between min/max and H/L, then the oil level is fine. If it is below, then you need to add more engine oil. Once you have checked the oil level, put back the dipstick.
2)Engine noises and knocking
Oil acts as a protective layer between engine parts, avoiding metal-to-metal brushing and keeping the engine free working without any extra noises. If your car starts making a sound like knocking or rumbling, it's a sign that your car engine is in utter need of oiling.
3)Quality of Oil
Clean oil is translucent and amber in colour. It becomes filled with particles collected from the engine and turns darker with its use. If this begins to happen, you must be vigilant and check your engine oil at least once a month. Wipe the dipstick clean before returning it to the oil tank after removing it. Take it out again. When you cannot see the dipstick through the oil, it is time for an oil change.
4)Excessive Mileage
When you've covered a substantial distance within the past month, it's wise to contemplate the possibility of an earlier oil change than your typical routine. It's essential to recognize that each vehicle's oil change requirements can vary, but as a general rule, most cars should undergo an oil change every 3,000 miles or at least every three months. Conversely, newer vehicles extend this interval to around 6,000 miles or six months.
5)Oil Smell and Smoke
An unusual and unpleasant odour of burnt or overheated oil in your car can indicate an overdue oil change. Additionally, if you notice visible smoke coming from your exhaust, it's a sign that your engine may be burning oil, which necessitates immediate attention. These olfactory and visual cues should not be ignored, as they signify a pressing need for an oil change to maintain your car's performance and longevity.
So far, you've understood the importance of car engine oil changes and signs to look for so that you are aware of your car's condition and act accordingly.
If you are still in doubt, looking for a car oil change near you, and are in a complete bind to know which car service will be the best for your car, then Bosch Car Service is the perfect choice. Its many car service choices include oil and filter changes, car spa, health checks, vehicle diagnostic checks, and anything and everything your car needs.
You can now also get your car services from the comfort of your home by logging in to the Bosch Car Service portal and opting for the car service near your location.