Engine oil can often be a more important concern than many drivers might realize. Oil is essential for protecting the numerous moving parts and internal components that make up an engine. Learning how to change engine oil themselves and making an effort to check both oil levels and quality from time to time can go a long way towards ensuring vehicles are able to last as long as possible. Inadequate lubrication can drastically increase the risk of a part failure or breakdown that could leave owners with no other option but to replace either their engine or their vehicle
Choose the Right Oil
From high-end synthetic oils that are designed for use in high-performance engines to organic motor oils that have been specifically formulated for use in older vehicles with high-mileage engines, selecting and using the right engine oil is not a matter that should go overlooked. Other issues that could help determine which oil is right for the vehicle can include driving habits, local climate and even the maintenance budget available to the owner.
Check the Oil Often
Early detection is essential for ensuring that any problems with the engine or oil can be dealt with before they grow larger in either scope or severity. Waiting weeks or even months to discover that oil levels have fallen too low could place the entire engine at risk. Checking the oil level weekly and inspecting it for the presence of contaminants, color or viscosity is often one of the most effective ways to minimize long-term maintenance costs.
Changing the Oil Regularly
Engine oil isn’t designed to last forever and the oil within the engine, as well as the oil filter, will need to be removed and replaced at set intervals. Vehicle owners who elect to put off an oil change and those who fail to follow the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer are far more likely to find themselves faced with a breakdown or other mechanical issues which could have been easily prevented. When it comes to optimizing or extending the useful service life of a vehicle, regular oil changes are a nonnegotiable issue.
Proper Maintenance Makes a Difference
Routine repairs and preventative maintenance can often be arranged for a fraction of the costs needed to deal with a major mechanical issue. When it comes to caring for and maintaining their vehicle, owners would do well to learn how to avoid the most common mistakes. Insufficient lubrication, using the wrong type of oil or putting off the next oil change for too long could all lead to any number of issues and repairs that vehicle owners would be wise to avoid.
