How Oil Changes Enhance Fuel Efficiency and Optimize Engine Performance
A Small Service Makes A Big Difference
Did you know that a fresh oil change can boost your fuel economy by up to 12%? And did you know that a fresh oil change can preserve your engine's performance throughout its life?
Your oil is tasked with minimizing friction inside your engine and plays a vital role in its longevity. With gas prices skyrocketing, keeping fresh oil in your engine is not only a great way to enhance the lifespan of your engine, but it's also a great way to save fuel.
At Tate Boys Tire & Service, we feature a team of ASE-certified mechanics who perform quality and trustworthy oil changes on all makes and models of vehicles. Dedicated to excellence, we use the highest-quality oil and oil filters for your engine, and we go the extra mile to ensure that your vehicle has all of the automotive services that it needs.
Let's dive in and talk about how fresh oil optimizes engine performance for your vehicle. When your vehicle is due for service, we welcome you to call us to schedule an appointment at Tate Boys Tire & Service for a quality oil change in Tulsa, OK.
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How An Oil Change Affects Engine Performance
Friction stands as one of your engine's mortal enemies. Not only does it generate extreme heat that can cause irreversible damage, but it also robs your engine of power while diminishing its fuel economy.
Your motor oil plays a crucial role in minimizing friction within your engine, simultaneously reducing heat and clearing carbon deposits from engine parts. As the oil circulates through your engine, it efficiently aids in minimizing friction, enabling smoother operation. However, the lifespan of your oil is finite. Over time, as the oil ages and becomes dirtier, its chemical properties alter, leading to oxidation. This signifies a decline in its protective capabilities, resulting in increased engine friction, reduced performance, and decreased fuel economy.
Oil Type and Its Correlation With Oil Change Frequency
How frequently your vehicle will need an oil change will depend largely on the type of oil that your vehicle uses. There are three types of oil that your engine can use:
1. Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is a low-cost option and provides adequate protection for many engines. This type of oil offers the most basic protection for your engine and is also typically the lowest cost. It's important to note that this type of oil is not compatible with every type of engine. Conventional oil can protect an engine until it reaches temperatures of around 275 F. Once it is heated past this temperature, conventional oil will oxidize and no longer be able to protect your engine.
For engines that can use this type of oil, it is generally recommended to be changed every 3,000-5,000 miles.
2. Synthetic Blend
This type of oil mixes conventional oil with synthetic to provide added protection for your engine. Often formulated to protect high-mileage engines, synthetic-blend oil typically includes added detergents or sealants to address some of the common problems found in high-mileage engines. This type of oil typically needs to be changed every 5,000-7,500 miles.
3. Full-Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil offers the highest degree of protection for your engine, but in turn, it is typically the most expensive. Able to withstand temperatures of around 500 F and beyond, this type is great for high-performance and turbocharged engines. It is typically recommended that you change synthetic oil every 7,500-10,000 miles.
Skipping an Oil Change Can Cause Engine Damage
We've mentioned that your oil ages and loses its protective abilities over time. However, we never explained exactly what happens if you fail to change your oil on time. Going past your recommended oil change service intervals means that your engine will operate with higher levels of friction and heat.
The longer your engine runs with old, dirty oil, the higher the temperatures inside your engine can get. As friction builds and your engine parts reach a certain temperature, they can warp and cause a catastrophic breakdown. Another great risk is that your engine seizes. In both cases, your engine will need to be replaced, which would cost thousands of dollars.
Your Car May Be Telling You It's Time for an Oil Change
Sometimes it may be time for an oil change, and you simply don't realize it. Here are a few common symptoms that you may notice when it's time for an oil change:
- Reduced fuel economy
- Reduced performance
- Engine oil light
- Rough idle
- Exhaust smoke
Schedule an Appointment at Tate Boys Tire & Service Today!
When it's time for an oil change in Tulsa, we invite you to come into Tate Boys Tire & Service. We feature a team of ASE-certified mechanics performing service on all makes and models of vehicles. We also use quality replacement parts to ensure that your oil change services are performed with peace of mind.
We even offer fantastic oil change service coupons that allow you to enjoy trustworthy service at affordable prices. Schedule an appointment at Tate Boys Tire & Service today and optimize your fuel economy while preserving engine performance.
