Taking care of your vehicle can feel time-consuming and tedious, but it’s important to have it maintained regularly to keep it running safely and efficiently for years to come. One of the most important things you need to stay on top of is your oil changes. Failing to do so can prove disastrous for your vehicle! Dave’s Auto Repair is here to help you understand just how vital oil changes are.
The oil in your car serves three main purposes. It works to keep your engine cool to prevent overheating, it lubricates moving parts, and it flushes away corrosive particles that can cause major damage. Without enough clean oil, your vehicle’s engine can become destroyed beyond repair.
If you don’t change your oil regularly, corrosive particles will build up and reduce how effective your oil actually is. Old oil breaks down, so it stops being able to properly lubricate moving parts over time. This causes friction that can break down vital parts inside your engine as well as heat. If the temperatures rise too high, your engine can overheat and stop running altogether. Because oil breaks down, you can run out. If you drive a car, truck, or van with no oil, it’s likely your engine will be shot and irreparable.
If you’re not sure whether or not you need an oil change, there are some tell-tale signs you can look for. If you’re hearing noises from your engine or your check engine light stays on all the time, bring your car in right away. You can also look at the dipstick. If the oil is dark brown or black in color or appears gritty, it’s time for a change. A shaking feeling when you’re idling is also an indication that it’s time for an oil change.
Once you change your oil, you can set up a timeframe to schedule all future oil changes. The type of oil your car takes will affect the frequency. Fully synthetic oils will last the longest. Conventional motor oil may be cheaper, but it will need to be changed more often. The climate in your area, how often you drive, and the age of your car are all factors to consider as well. Your mechanic can aid you in deciding how many months or miles you can go between changes, and it is vital that you always keep your appointments.
Dave’s Auto Repair can assist with all of your car needs, including oil changes! Give us a call to set up an appointment at (941) 371-5981. We are conveniently located at 4547 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, Florida.