The Importance of Consistent Oil Changes

It's no secret that regular oil changes are essential for maintaining your vehicle and keeping it running smoothly. But many people don't realize just how important they are or why they must be done consistently.

Oil changes provide more than just an engine cleanse; they help maintain peak performance, protect the engine from damage, extend the life of your vehicle, and improve fuel economy and emissions.

What is an oil change?

An oil change involves draining an engine's old, dirty oil and replacing it with new, clean oil. The new oil lubricates parts and helps keep the entire system running efficiently. Over time, however, this oil becomes contaminated with dirt and other particles that can harm your engine components.

The benefits of regular oil changes go beyond just maintaining engine performance. Fresh oil helps to keep your car running more efficiently, meaning you can get better fuel economy and fewer emissions. This translates into cost savings over time, as well as being beneficial for the environment. Additionally, clean oil can extend the life of your engine, while contaminated oil accelerates wear and tear.

What happens during an oil change?

During an oil change, your automotive technician will drain the old oil, replace the oil filter and refill your engine with new motor oil. Once the oil is replaced, the technician will check the oil level to ensure everything is correct. At Wilton Auto and Tire Center, every oil change also comes with a complimentary multi-point inspection in which the technician examines other vital parts of the vehicle to ensure they are in good condition.

How often should I have my oil changed?

Typically, oil should be changed every 3,000-5,000 miles, though it is important to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations, as some vehicles may require more frequent oil changes.

What happens if I don't change my oil?

Failure to change your oil can lead to a build-up of sludge and dirt in your engine, leading to costly repairs or complete engine failure requiring replacement.

Does it matter what oil I use?

Yes! Using the correct type and weight of oil as specified by the manufacturer is essential to ensuring optimal performance and protection for your engine.

The three primary types of motor oil are conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic. Most newer vehicles require full synthetic oil, while older models can usually use conventional or synthetic blend.

The weight of motor oil is indicated by two values separated by a dash (ex. 5W-30), which refers to the oil's Viscosity Index (VI). The value preceding the dash indicates the oil's viscosity at 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the number after the dash is the oil's viscosity at 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

In addition to type and weight, selecting a high-quality brand of motor oil is also essential. At Wilton Auto and Tire Center, we prefer Mobil1 motor oil. Mobil1 oil is a synthetic motor oil that provides superior protection for your engine compared to conventional oils. It helps protect against wear, deposits, and sludge build-up, which can lead to reduced engine life. Mobil1 also has improved thermal stability, helping maintain peak performance and fuel economy.

Ultimately, regular oil changes are one of the most crucial preventive maintenance measures to keep your car running effectively. By having oil changes done consistently, you can ensure that your vehicle will be operating at peak performance for years to come.

Our service team at Wilton Auto and Tire and Center are here to help you determine the best preventative maintenance schedule and choose the right oil for your specific. If you are in need of an oil change, request an appointment today!