The Importance of Oil Changes

Two mechanics working on the engine of an automobile.

Checking the Oil - Ace Auto Repair Utah

The oil in your vehicle's engine lubricates the moving parts keeping your car or truck running at its best and preventing costly repairs. But when oil reduces in volume from use and starts to break down, the engine's components can be damaged. Over time oil becomes polluted with contaminates like dust, dirt, debris and other particulates can cause a build-up of harmful sludge. Old oil will also build-up in filters and vents that can result in issues with the air flow to the engine.

One of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is to have your oil changed regularly. As a general rule of thumb, car care experts recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles. But with technology improvements, newer vehicles might only require an oil change between 5,000 to 10,000 miles, check your owner's manual for your car's manufacturer's recommendations. Whether you have a new or old car, the importance of oil changes cannot be understated.

 If you are unsure about your car's recommended oil change schedule, the certified mechanics at Ace Auto Repair in West Jordan, Utah can help. Give us a call at 801-447-1693 for an affordable, professional oil change with fast, friendly service.

Maintaining Proper Engine Lubrication

While you're driving the moving parts of your car's engine, like pistons and valves, move at high rates of speed. Oil helps keep the heat created by these components down and prevents wear. When the oil is low or too old, these moving parts are not properly lubricated and will create more heat with friction and over-heat the engine. The benefits of properly maintaining engine lubrication with regular oil changes include:

  • Improved Gas Mileage - New, clean oil from routine oil changes can improve gas mileage by 1-2% over time. But not enough oil, old oil or the wrong kind of oil will lead to an increase in your vehicle's fuel consumption and end up costing you more at the pump.
  • Prevents Contaminants and Sludge - Particulates like dust, dirt and debris can decrease the life span of your vehicle by causing corrosion and harmful scarring to the engine. For optimal vehicle performance, a clean engine is key and routine oil and filter changes maintain a clean engine.
  • Helps Avoid Costly Repairs - Routine maintenance, including regular oil and filter changes, helps avoid costly repairs. An engine that is not properly lubricated forces the moving components to work too hard and will end up causing problems in the future. Average yearly oil changes = approximately $120 and the cost of not maintaining your vehicle's engine = approximately $4,000.
  • Increases Resale Value - By increasing your vehicle's life span, you increase the resale value. The value of a well-maintained car or truck, whose owner followed the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, increases at the time of resale According to Kelley Blue Book.

Whether you take your vehicle to a dealership or a local, trusted mechanic for an oil change, it is important to follow the manufacturer oil change recommendations to ensure your factory warranty coverage remains valid. Regular maintenance services are easy to keep up with compared to the costly repairs you may face if without it.

Fast, Affordable Oil Change in the Salt Lake City Area

Get better gas mileage and ensure your vehicle's engine is protected with an affordable and convenient oil change by an experienced technician. To save time and money, make an online appointment with Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah or give us a call at 801-447-1693 for an immediate service or repair quote. We are proud to offer Salt Lake City area residents complete auto repair and maintenance services.

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