Why You Shouldn’t Skip Oil Changes

Regular Driving Requires Regular Maintenance

Motor oil is necessary for proper vehicle operation. It lubricates your car’s engine and also helps remove heat from the engine. Most car manufacturers recommend that you have your oil changed every 3,000 – 10,000 miles. Your owner’s manual will give you specific oil change recommendations for your car. If your oil level gets too low or old, it can lead to a variety of problems that are both dangerous and expensive. Here are a few of the top reasons why you shouldn’t skip oil changes in Santa Clara for any reason.

Sludge

Sludge isn’t a pretty word, and it doesn’t look pretty when it’s in your engine, either. Unfortunately, one of the significant complications associated with skipping oil changes is a buildup of sludge. This is merely old oil that begins to develop a gel-like consistency as it solidifies. Once an engine gets a buildup of sludge, it starts to break down. Oil can no longer flow freely within the engine, which can damage the engine’s moving parts. Over time, sludge can damage the engine so significantly that entire engine replacement is necessary.

Thermal Oil Breakdown

Oil can’t last forever, especially in the high-heat environment of an engine. Over time, engine oil naturally breaks down as a result of the high temperatures to which it is consistently exposed. As the oil breaks down, it starts to lose its lubrication abilities and is not as protective to the engine’s moving parts. That’s why it’s important to replace old engine oil at regular intervals with new engine oil.

Overheating

Fresh oil helps reduce heat inside your car’s engine. As the oil breaks down, it works less effectively. As excess heat builds within the engine, it can warp the components. It can also cause the vehicle to overheat and become undrivable. If the problem is caught right away, and an oil change is received, the problem may not become too severe. However, if an oil change is skipped too frequently or for too long, engine damage can be significant.

Schedule Your Oil Change

Valencia Auto Performance in Santa Clarita offers reliable oil change services. We can also repair other problems your vehicle may have. To schedule your service appointment, fill out our online form.