Jim Turner Chevrolet
May 28, 2021

Car engines contain many different moving parts, and it’s important to keep these pieces properly lubricated. Although you might think you just need to have enough oil to help keep these parts working correctly, it’s also vital to have the oil changed regularly. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes full of dirt and debris. Use this guide to learn five reasons why you need to be proactive and change your Chevy truck or car’s oil and filter. 

  1. Improves Gas Mileage

If you’re someone who drives long distances often, you understand the importance of gas mileage. When your vehicle has poor engine lubrication, it can lead to an increase in fuel consumption. That’s because the engine will need twice as much power to move the vehicle. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using the correct motor oil grade and getting routine changes can improve your mileage by 1% to 2%. Although that number might seem low, it could save you an entire gallon of gas for a year. 

  1. Cools the Engine’s Parts

While your engine produces heat from friction and combustion when it’s operating, you never want it to overheat. Without the proper friction, the moving parts become hotter because the excess heat isn’t released elsewhere. Engine oil prevents excessive heating by transferring the heat away from the engine’s vulnerable parts. If the engine has sufficient and clean amounts of oil, it reduces the risk of the engine overheating and stranding you. 

  1. Helps the Environment

Whenever an engine is operating with fresh oil, it will burn cleaner. This results in fewer exhaust emissions, which helps the environment. Dirty oil causes particle buildup and emits pollution into the air. Also, when the oil is bad and begins to break down, the engine produces pollution and your vehicle doesn’t work properly. 

  1. Extends the Engine’s Life

Routine maintenance makes your used car last longer, and changing the oil is no exception. Engine oil provides a natural protective element that prevents dirt, moisture, and dust from accumulating within your engine’s moving parts. Buildup from dirty oil shortens the engine’s life span. It’s essential to change the oil to prevent these particles from corroding your engine. 

  1. Reduces Costly Repairs

Regularly changing the oil can ensure your engine goes through less stress and its parts see less wear and tear. This reduces the risk of expensive repairs you might experience down the road. An oil change is an inexpensive alternative to risking serious damage to your engine. Replacing a blown engine can cost thousands of dollars. 

Bringing your car in for an oil change is a necessary task since dirty oil can cause corrosion and decrease the life of the engine. Some vehicles have a built-in oil-life monitor that can remind you when it’s time to change your vehicle’s oil. However, if your vehicle doesn’t have one or if you’re simply unsure how often you need to change the oil, check the owner’s manual for the mileage recommendation. You can also bring your car into Jim Turner’s Chevy service center where the certified technicians can change the oil for you. Schedule an oil change at your local Chevy dealer in McGregor today