In today’s tough economy, it’s tempting to cut corners here and there if it means saving money. It’s important to remember, though, that there are some areas, like maintaining your vehicle, where it really doesn’t pay to be pennywise and pound-foolish. And while spending money on car maintenance is not something any of us enjoy doing, it is not only necessary, but will also save money, hassle, and time down the line.
One of the most effective ways to protect you from unnecessary spending and inconvenience is as simple as an oil change. By staying on top of your vehicle’s regular oil changes, you will almost certainly help keep your car in better shape, keep it on the road longer, and in the long term, save yourself money. The old Benjamin Franklin quote holds true here: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
For many Americans, a car is their largest or second largest investment. And though an oil change might seem like a minor and inconvenient task, it is one of the most effective measures a smart and mindful car owner can take to prevent costly damages to their vehicle. Your vehicle’s oil is directly responsible for lubricating your engine, and if you are skipping oil changes, you are damaging your car’s engine. Engine damage will not only shorten your car’s life, it will end up costing you valuable time and money in the long run.
Your car oil’s job is to clean and lubricate the many valuable parts of your vehicle’s motor. Today’s engines are more complex and sophisticated than ever before, so neglecting something as simple as regular, inexpensive oil changes can unfortunately lead to expensive repairs of as much as $15,000. Over time, the oil in your car becomes less effective at lubricating crucial parts of your engine. These parts start to rub against each other, causing damage to your vehicle.
It’s a good idea to consult your car’s manual to find out how often you should get your oil changed, since need varies from vehicle to vehicle, and according to the type of driving you do. There is no sense in spending time and money on over-frequent oil changes, of course, but when it’s time for your particular vehicle to have its oil changed, both your car and your checking account will thank you for doing it.
