Don't skip checking your oil! 4 reasons to check your oil

In some ways, motor oil is the crux of any working vehicle. A simple, petroleum-based lubricant, this versatile tool balances more than one task at once. To ensure a car works seamlessly, it’s imperative that all drivers make a habit of checking their oil. We’ve detailed a few key reasons why regular oil checks should be a part of your routine, so keep reading to learn more about the advantages of this practice.

1. Oil keeps everything working

Without oil, the other parts of your car would be rendered useless. Though it performs more than one role, oil’s primary job is that of a lubricant. Its purpose is to create friction, helping a car’s various parts move smoothly. It allows these parts to work in tandem, moving smoothly together without causing damage. If oil levels are insufficient, you may hear unpleasant sounds as components of your vehicle grind against one another. A lack of oil is noticeable because it disrupts the flow of your vehicle. Having too little oil or none at all can be detrimental to the rest of a vehicle, proving how vital it is in facilitating the many operations that go on inside a car.

2. Oil cools your engine

If you’ve ever noticed steam rising from beneath the hood of a car, this is a signal that an engine is overheating. When an engine’s temperature skyrockets, it can lead to vehicle damage or even danger. Depending on how hot the car gets, the amount of harm done will differ. Crucial car parts can shatter as a result of extreme heat, and irrevocable harm may be done to the engine itself. Regular oil checks are one way to avoid this problem because oil acts as a coolant that will keep your engine at a safe temperature. When your oil supply dips too low, you’ll be missing one cooling agent used to combat excess heat. If you live in a state where your engine gets bogged down by suffocating heat, making sure your oil levels are normal will help you avoid car trouble.

3. Oil keeps your engine clean

A dirty engine is an engine that’s inching closer to death. When dirt or debris makes its way inside the heart of a car, it can corrode the interior and ultimately decrease an engine’s lifespan. This means you may have to trade in your car for a new one sooner than you’d like. When old oil is left to rot inside an engine, it tends to thicken into a viscous, sludge-like substance. Dirt like this spells disaster, so it’s important to swap your old oil out for new, fresh oil. Changing oil on a regular basis will prevent the build-up of unwanted grime, giving your engine a better chance at a long, healthy life. 

4. Oil changes can result in better mileage

We all want our cars to deliver the best quality they possibly can, and many drivers view mileage as a major priority. When a car’s engine is performing efficiently, it also fulfills its potential for good mileage. An engine functions best when it’s cleaned out and cleared of debris, and you’ll see this reflected in a vehicle’s awesome mileage. Because fresh oil has been shown to maximize engine efficiency, it can also result in better gas mileage.

How often should I check my oil?

Though checking more frequently can’t hurt, checking your oil once a month is a good rule of thumb. However, there are a few cues to look out for that indicate oil should be checked sooner. Billowing exhaust smoke or an odd smell can both signal that oil is burning, and these are signs that oil should be immediately checked. If the distinct scent of oil is wafting inside your vehicle, this is another indication that an oil check is necessary. If you don’t feel comfortable checking oil yourself, you can always stop by an auto shop and ask someone to look things over for you.

Fall in love with your next car at Transwest

Regular oil checks can help your car last longer, but even the best vehicles must be retired at some point. If your current car is reaching the end of the road, stop by a Transwest location to start scouting out a brand-new one. Or, if you’d rather stay home, just check out our inventory online today.