The Importance of Changing Your Oil: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

We talk a lot about the importance of changing your oil on a regular basis. It’s one of the most important preventative maintenance steps you can take for your vehicle. Generally, you should change your oil every three months, or every 3,000 miles. But be aware that this recommendation can differ based on your vehicle, driving style, and conditions.

 To show you just how important the lifeblood of your vehicle really is, we created a summary of the good, the bad, and the ugly that can happen to your vehicle, based on your oil change schedule.

The Good

Oil is what keeps the moving parts in your engine lubricated and running. Oil is also important because it cleans and cools the engine. Regular changes and using the proper oil for your vehicle can extend the life of your vehicle and the time between repairs. It can even increase your MPG by 1 to 2 percent!

The Bad

When you don’t change your oil, your vehicle will start to have more and more problems. Old oil has less viscosity. Because it gets thinner, it doesn’t have the same ability to lubricate. The engine and the surrounding parts start to become hot, reducing performance efficiency. Even if your vehicle is new, the oil is going to get dirty at some point. Dirty oil isn’t able to clean and cool your vehicle as well as clean oil.

The Ugly

If you want to ruin your vehicle – and ruin it quickly – ignore your oil. Without regular changes, your oil will become too contaminated to protect the engine. Next, the parts of the engine begin to rub together, eventually wearing out. Neglect your oil and your engine is ultimately going to shut down. No one wants to be faced with the decision of whether it’s best to replace an engine or buy a new vehicle – all because of neglected maintenance.

We can’t stress enough that regular oil changes are something you can’t skip. The good news is that changing your oil is one of the least expensive maintenance items.

Stop by any Jiffy Lube of Indiana location and our experienced technicians will help you check this item off your to-do list. Our Signature Service Oil change not only involves changing your oil, but also includes checking other fluid levels, wiper blades, exterior lights, tire pressure, as well as cleaning your exterior windows and interior floors.