You might think that oil changes are an optional maintenance option. However, the truth could not be any further from this dangerous idea. Regular oil changes are essential for your engine's performance and protection, but this service can also have a significant effect on your car's fuel efficiency, which is also important.
Oil Makeup
When the oil in a car is replaced as part of an oil change, its makeup is rich. However, as the oil ages and moves past its point of expiration, its makeup starts to decline, and the oil blend starts to break down. In terms of the effectiveness of the oil in supporting the engine, the richer its mix, the greater its level of efficiency, and the more the blend breaks down, the opposite is true.
As the oil breaks down, it's unable to lubricate the engine properly, which can cause friction to build up inside the engine, and also cause the engine to heat up more. Both of these events, in turn, cause your engine to burn more fuel, which ultimately means that you have to take more trips to the fuel station. It's important to change the oil before the breakdown process occurs.
Sludge
When engine oil breakdowns, it's common for sludge deposits to form, which are the result of the oil gelling or solidifying. However, once sludge forms, it can quickly multiply. Oil sludge only arises when the oil is exposed to high temperatures. Since the oil sludge also causes the engine to run hotter, your engine advertently plays a role in a self-destroying cycle of running hot and producing more sludge.
As you might imagine, sludge greatly diminishes the performance of an engine. As a result, your engine will have to exert more power during operation. The more power your engine exerts, the more fuel it also burns and the more you have to pay to maintain fuel levels in your vehicle. However, sludge can also damage the engine. Regular oil changes can eliminate sludge buildup since the oil is replaced long before the deposit process begins.
Make sure you protect your car and commit to regular oil changes. If you aren't sure how often you need to have the oil changed, don't worry. A technician can assess your driving habits, the model of your car, and the type of oil blend you use to help you determine a schedule that is best for the health of your vehicle.
For more information, contact a company like SALTA SERVICE & PERFORMANCE today.
Share10 February 2019
When is the last time you had your brakes checked? Are you waiting until you hear the brake pads grinding into the rotors before you do anything to replace them? Does your car pull to one side when you press on the brakes? Do you feel a shimmying in your steering wheel and brake pedal as you press the pedal to stop? If you have any of these issues, it is time for you to learn how to care for the brakes on your car effectively. Taking preventative measures and getting repair work done before serious problems arise will save you money over the years.
