October Auto Care: The Importance of Routine Oil Changes

As the temperature drops and the summer ends in South Carolina, thoughts of cozy sweaters, falling leaves, and pumpkin spice fill the air. Winter months can be harsh on our vehicles, and it’s easy to put off routine maintenance when it’s cold out, so we recommend preparing your vehicle before the temperatures drop too much. That’s why The Car Care Council named October National Car Care Month: to bring attention to the importance of car care and preventative maintenance. 

Your car is more than a way to get from point A to point B. It’s an investment, and regular auto maintenance is the best way to protect your investment. One of the most essential tasks is regular oil changes.

Oil changes are essential to your preventative maintenance routine, ensuring top performance and vehicle longevity. Compared to the potential cost of engine repairs or replacement, regular oil changes are an affordable way to keep your vehicle running at its best.

Let’s explore more benefits of keeping up with your oil changes. 

Six Benefits of Routine Oil Changes

Most Fords can go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes, but we recommend checking your owner’s manual for recommendations that are specific to your model. This is especially important if you have an older model. Some vehicles-especially if they’re not new–need an oil change every 5,000 miles or so.

With that in mind, here’s why oil changes are a key preventative maintenance task:

Removes Debris   

Clean oil is essential for keeping the engine and all of its moving parts adequately lubricated and running smoothly. Motor oil deteriorates and accumulates debris over time, which hinders its ability to properly lubricate the engine. Replacing dirty oil regularly helps to keep your engine clean and performing at its peak.

Extends The Life of Your Engine

Since oil helps your engine run smoothly, oil changes ensure you get the most life out of your engine. Regular oil changes can minimize the risk of catastrophic engine damage and avoid expensive repairs. You’ll also be lengthening the lifespan of critical engine parts such as pistons, camshafts, and bearings.

Optimal Fuel Efficiency 

Believe it or not, sticking to your vehicle’s recommended auto maintenance intervals can help you save at the pump! A properly maintained engine provides the best gas mileage your car has to offer. Old or low oil doesn’t lubricate the engine as effectively, requiring your engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Prevent Overheating 

Clean oil decreases friction and absorbs some of the heat produced by the engine. Regular oil changes ensure proper heat transfer; as the oil moves from hotter areas to cooler ones, it helps to redistribute the heat. Without regular oil changes, friction builds up between the engine’s many moving parts. Excessive friction forces the system to work harder than it should, creating excess heat and pressure on the entire engine.

Environmental Benefits

Believe it or not, the benefits of regular oil changes extend to the air outside of our vehicles. Clean oil helps reduce harmful emissions and pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet. 

Peace of Mind

With regular oil changes, you can cruise with confidence, knowing that your car’s engine is properly lubricated and protected. During an oil change, our technicians perform a thorough inspection could identify other potential issues with your vehicle. 

Schedule An Oil Change with Your Ford Dealership in Florence!  

Whether you need auto repairs or preventative maintenance services like a routine oil change, count on the service technicians at Mike Reichenbach Ford of Florence! 

Our state-of-the-art facility features the most up-to-date auto service equipment available, and our certified technicians deliver the best service in the area. We make sticking to your maintenance schedule easy.  

Ready to get started? Schedule your oil change at our Ford Service Department. 

We proudly serve drivers near Sumter and all over the Pee Dee region!  We’ll get you back on the road quickly for a safe fall and winter season! 

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