Why Is It Important To Get An Oil Change In Time?

If you are relying on the dashboard indicator to alert you when an oil change is due, you are heading for costly repairs. For someone unfamiliar with the working of automobile engines, it may not be easy to understand the importance of oil changes.

The lubrication system is a critical component of all combustion engines.

Wheel Problems Increase Wear And Tear

1. It prevents metal-to-metal contact and protects the engine from damage.

Fixing The Problem

2. It reduces friction and promotes smooth operation. This improves efficiency and reduces heat generation and wear.

3. Engine components get heated due to combustion and friction. Engine oil cools the engine by taking heat away from it.

4. As it flows over moving parts, it cleans them by its detergent action.

Due to improvements in technology, cars have become complex and features like variable valve timing (VVT), which were once found only in racing cars, are available in commercial models.

Apart from its basic functions, engine oil may have other roles to play depending on the type of technology used. For example, VVT uses engine oil pressure to alter valve timings dynamically. If the quality of engine oil deteriorates, the VVT system can malfunction and cause performance issues.

Tyre problems are best diagnosed and fixed by experts. Contact your garage if you suspect a wheel problem. As with all problems, prevention is always the better option. You are unlikely to face wheel issues if you get your car serviced periodically at a good garage. During periodic servicing, wheels and tyres are inspected. If your car is due for service, get in touch with us and we will arrange your service with the best garage in your area.

How Engine Oil Works

Engine oil is stored in the oil reservoir (oil sump) and is pumped through the engine when it runs. The oil pump sucks the oil through a pickup tube, pressurises it and sends it through the oil filter. Here, microscopic particles are removed and the oil travels along a circuit of oil pathways in the engine. The filtered oil flows over a number of critical engine components like the crank shaft, pistons and valve trains.

As it flows, it lubricates, cools pistons, keeps them clean and prevents wear in the drive trains. The oil is the only thing preventing metal to metal contact between moving parts. It also minimises deposits on the engine components.

After flowing through the engine, the oil returns to the sump. The whole trip takes only about five seconds. Regular oil maintenance preserves and protects the engine and gives you years of trouble-free performance.

Why Does Engine Oil Need Maintenance?

Engine oil is a careful blend of substances that give it certain physical and chemical properties. Several additives that have specific functions are also present in the oil.

With use, the oil gradually deteriorates due to the extreme operating conditions within the engine. New engine oil is usually a thick smooth and slimy fluid with a golden brown colour. With use, it turns darker and gritty. The viscosity also changes and it becomes thinner or thicker. The oil filter gets clogged with use and beyond a point it loses its ability to supply clean oil.

Apart from the degradation in physical and chemical properties, the quantity of oil also starts falling as some of it gets burnt in the engine. Engine oil can be topped up, but if its quality has deteriorated beyond a point, it needs to be replaced or there is a risk of engine damage. Manufacturers specify the mileage and time interval after which the oil and oil filter must be replaced.

Why Does Engine Oil Need Maintenance?

Engine oil is a careful blend of substances that give it certain physical and chemical properties. Several additives that have specific functions are also present in the oil.

With use, the oil gradually deteriorates due to the extreme operating conditions within the engine. New engine oil is usually a thick smooth and slimy fluid with a golden brown colour. With use, it turns darker and gritty. The viscosity also changes and it becomes thinner or thicker. The oil filter gets clogged with use and beyond a point it loses its ability to supply clean oil.

Apart from the degradation in physical and chemical properties, the quantity of oil also starts falling as some of it gets burnt in the engine. Engine oil can be topped up, but if its quality has deteriorated beyond a point, it needs to be replaced or there is a risk of engine damage. Manufacturers specify the mileage and time interval after which the oil and oil filter must be replaced.

What Happens If The Oil Is Not Changed In Time

Without proper engine oil, your engine will start to overheat and its efficiency will go down. Wear and tear will also increase. If oil is not replaced, the engine will eventually shut down. In most cases, you will need a new engine. That could cost anywhere from £3000 to £12000 depending on the make, model and engine type. Clearly, it’s cheaper to get the oil changed in time.

Although many modern cars are fitted with an oil change indicator, they are not very reliable. Even in high-end cars like the Audi and BMW, the system may not trigger in time to prevent engine damage.

If you are getting your car serviced periodically at a good garage at the recommended time and mileage intervals, you are unlikely to face an oil problem. If you are overdue for service or use your car a lot, you should do a monthly check on oil levels and quality. You will find the instructions in your car manual. If you decide to top up, use good-quality oil that confirms with the manufacturer’s specifications. If an oil change is required, take your car to a good garage. Used engine oil is toxic and DIY oil changes are messy and dangerous.

Regular servicing at a good garage ensures that your car gets the necessary supply of good-quality engine oil, but that’s not all. A periodic service includes many other essential checks that help maintain the health and performance of your vehicle. Car servicing in the Manchester area is now easy. Just get in touch with us and we will connect you to the right garage. You will get top-class service at the best rates.

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