Are Oil Changes Necessary?
Many mechanics may hear this question from new and inexperienced drivers. You don’t have to own a vehicle for very long to hear it said—oil changes are necessary if you want to keep your car running. In addition to your trusted mechanic, the best way to find out what kind of oil to use and the correct mileage interval recommended by the vehicle manufacturer is to read the owner’s manual.
So why are oil changes necessary? Because oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness, you may start to notice one or more of the warning signs below of a needed oil change:
- Dirty Oil – Clean fresh oil is amber in color, but as it collects dirt and particles as it circulates through the engine, it will look dark and dirty.
- Noisy Engine – When the oil starts to break down, it loses its effectiveness in lubricating the engine. You may start to hear knocking, rumbling, or even roaring coming from the engine.
- Oil Change Warning Light – This little light indicates that the level of oil is too low. Although you may get by for a little while by adding a quart oil, it’s time for an oil change, especially if the oil has turned dark.
- Exhaust Smoke – Smoke coming from the muffler (not the translucent vapor from cold temperatures), could be an indication of an oil leak or that there are damaged or faulty parts in the engine.
- Smell of oil – If you smell oil while inside your car, it means there’s a leak. If the smell is mixed with the smell of gas or exhaust fumes, your vehicle is overheating and oil is burning in the exhaust area. If left unattended, serious damage could be taking place in the engine.
Here are several benefits of keeping up with regular oil changes:
- Extends the life of your engine
- Optimizes your vehicle’s performance
- Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
- Keeps engine parts lubricated
- Prevents engine overheating
Even though oil changes are relatively simple and inexpensive, a lot of vehicle owners neglect this service, thinking they are saving money. However, the cost of engine repair is far greater than the cost of an oil change service. Many auto shops offer oil change coupons for their customers so be sure to take advantage of these savings.
If you’re still wondering why are oil changes necessary, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
Many mechanics may hear this question from new and inexperienced drivers. You don’t have to own a vehicle for very long to hear it said—oil changes are necessary if you want to keep your car running. In addition to your trusted mechanic, the best way to find out what kind of oil to use and the correct mileage interval recommended by the vehicle manufacturer is to read the owner’s manual.
So why are oil changes necessary? Because oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness, you may start to notice one or more of the warning signs below of a needed oil change:
- Dirty Oil – Clean fresh oil is amber in color, but as it collects dirt and particles as it circulates through the engine, it will look dark and dirty.
- Noisy Engine – When the oil starts to break down, it loses its effectiveness in lubricating the engine. You may start to hear knocking, rumbling, or even roaring coming from the engine.
- Oil Change Warning Light – This little light indicates that the level of oil is too low. Although you may get by for a little while by adding a quart oil, it’s time for an oil change, especially if the oil has turned dark.
- Exhaust Smoke – Smoke coming from the muffler (not the translucent vapor from cold temperatures), could be an indication of an oil leak or that there are damaged or faulty parts in the engine.
- Smell of oil – If you smell oil while inside your car, it means there’s a leak. If the smell is mixed with the smell of gas or exhaust fumes, your vehicle is overheating and oil is burning in the exhaust area. If left unattended, serious damage could be taking place in the engine.
Here are several benefits of keeping up with regular oil changes:
- Extends the life of your engine
- Optimizes your vehicle’s performance
- Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
- Keeps engine parts lubricated
- Prevents engine overheating
Even though oil changes are relatively simple and inexpensive, a lot of vehicle owners neglect this service, thinking they are saving money. However, the cost of engine repair is far greater than the cost of an oil change service. Many auto shops offer oil change coupons for their customers so be sure to take advantage of these savings.
If you’re still wondering why are oil changes necessary, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
