Change your oil and filter regularly to protect your engine

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18: Changing the oil and filter regularly in your car is one of the most important things you can do for your vehicle.

Not only does it protect – and therefore extend the lifetime of  your car, but also it will ultimately save money in fuel and costly repairs.

It is a quick, simple and inexpensive way to keep your car running smoothly.

However, many of us have developed the bad habit of skipping regular oil and filter changes.

In Bermuda, we drive short distances at a time and people therefore think an oil change is unnecessary.

In fact, the opposite is true: short distance driving such as we have in Bermuda does not allow the oil to reach its ideal temperature for optimum performance, and does not allow extra moisture and fuel in the engine to burn off.

This can make the oil dirty and less efficient much faster than regular long-distance jaunts.

The main purpose of motor oil is to lubricate the moving parts in the engine.

A layer of oil over these parts reduces friction which would cause the parts to wear over time and the engine to overheat.

This layer of oil also protects these parts from corrosion.

Oil also traps dirt and “smudge” to keep the engine clean.

Dirt in the engine can be caused by ignition as well as particles that come off the engine parts over time.

These particles are trapped by the oil and the filter to keep them away from the working parts.

So, over time, the oil gets dirty and thick.

When it is like this, it cannot flow properly over the parts of the engine, can expose the engine to dirt and may cause even it to overheat. In short, it cannot do its job properly.

To ensure clean and efficient motor oil in your engine, we recommend an oil and filter change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on how far and how often you drive, as well as the type of vehicle you drive.

Skipping even one oil and filter change can damage your engine.

An oil and filter change is a quick job, particularly at a shop with the right tools and equipment.

Old oil is drained from the engine and disposed of properly.

The oil filter is removed and openings and parts are wiped where possible.

Seals are checked, a new filter is installed and clean oil is poured into the engine.

The service technician might also spot oil leaks or other possible mechanical troubles while performing an oil change, sometimes catching and fixing small issues before they become big problems.

It is important to have the proper amount of oil in your car, so between oil and filter changes be sure to check the oil level once or twice a month.

If the level is low, add a small amount to top it up.

Don’t overfill or oil can spill and leave a big mess or damage the car.

If you notice the oil on the dipstick is dirty or thick, it is probably time for an oil change.

Motor oil is the lifeblood or your car, so don’t neglect it.

Simple, regular oil and filter changes can keep your motor running smoothly for years to come.

For more information on automotive maintenance, contact Krishna King at Bermuda Motors: 292-0893 or [email protected]. Website: www.bermudamotors.bm.