Did You Know That Oil Is Your Vehicle’s Lifeblood?

Perhaps in the past, you’ve heard auto mechanics comparing engine oil to blood? Just as your heart helps pump oxygen-rich red blood cells through your circulatory system, your vehicle’s hot engine allows lubricating oil to pass through the automotive oil filter. This fluid material then coats important mechanical components inside the engine, including the crankshaft, the camshaft, the valves, the pistons, and other moving parts.

The Vital Role of Engine Oil

Mechanical components frequently encounter a lot of friction as the parts within an engine assembly operate. Many moving surfaces slide across one another. This activity inevitably results in the generation of intense heat. You’ve probably noticed the hood of your vehicle feels warm after you spend twenty minutes on the road; this heat results from the operation of the engine.

Unless you obtain regular mechanical maintenance for your auto (including regular engine oil filter replacements and oil changes), you risk eventually ruining the engine. Oil serves a vital role as a lubricant. It helps reduce damaging friction. The presence of viscous oil coating metal surfaces ultimately helps automotive components move more smoothly so the engine does not grow dangerously overheated.

The Oil Filter: An Important Component

Years ago, auto manufacturers usually used mainly metal oil filters. Today, they favor lighter weight filters made from plastics. These disposable parts play an important role in the engine lubrication process. They strain circulating engine oil, removing impurities and trapped debris which might gum up the operation of automotive engines. If a vehicle’s engine filter begins deteriorating, the driver often notices a difference in the performance. For example, a vehicle may burn gas less efficiently.

It remains very important to obtain oil filter replacements at recommended intervals. Typically, mechanics perform this step when they replace the vehicle’s oil. The majority of manufacturers suggest vehicle owners seek oil changes every three months or every 3,000 to 4,000 miles (whichever occurs first). To keep your engine well-lubricated and operating smoothly, it makes sense to adhere to these guidelines.

The Advantages of Obtaining Regular Oil Changes

Asking a qualified auto mechanic to perform regular automotive engine oil changes offers some significant benefits. First, you’ll ensure you keep your vehicle’s powertrain in a well-maintained condition. You’ll gain peace of mind knowing the recently changed oil filter functions optimally to remove debris which might otherwise impair performance.

Second, when they replace the oil, mechanics can also check the condition of other required automotive fluids. They’ll make sure your vehicle does not run out of these important lubricants. (In addition to engine oil, most brands require six other additives: radiator fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and air conditioner coolant.)

Third, many mechanics also check the operation of windshield wiper blades when conducting a routine oil change. This service lets drivers replace bent or damaged wipers. You’ll enjoy better visibility while driving through rain or snow!