If there's any service that's the most important for your vehicle, it most certainly has to be the oil change. Not only is it very critical to have clean oil, but the level must also be adequately topped off. Low oil levels are one of the main reasons engines seize up, and no car owner wants that. On the other hand, driving with insufficient oil can cause all sorts of problems for your engine, so it's vital to be proactive and get regular changes. Our service center at Jessup Auto Plaza has certified technicians to ensure you get the auto maintenance you need.
Dangers Of Driving With Low Oil
You may not realize it, but the oil keeps your engine working efficiently. Without enough oil, you'll run into all sorts of problems. Some of the main issues could include the following.
- Severe damage to your engine- Did you know your engine is a series of working parts? Oil serves the important purpose of lubricating all the moving pieces. Without enough oil, these working components will begin to grind and cause extensive damage. This situation can put you at risk of an accident because your engine will eventually fail.
- Loss of power- When your engine starts running out of oil, it will run less efficiently. As a result, you'll notice a significant difference when you press the accelerator, because there won't be as much power.
- Overheating- Your engine needs oil to cool it down. If the oil level gets too low, your engine will overheat. It can cause even more damage and potentially lead to a total engine failure. Have you ever seen someone break down on the side of the road with smoke coming from the engine? One possible reason for this problem is they waited too long to get an oil change.
- Corrosion protection- Oil is vital to protect your engine from corrosion. When there's insufficient oil, the metal components will start to corrode and break down.
- Reduced fuel efficiency- Although increased fuel consumption isn't necessarily dangerous, you'll be paying the price at the pump. Low oil levels can hurt your gas mileage, so you'll make more frequent stops to fill up.
How Often Should I get my Oil Changed?
Now that we've discussed some of the dangers associated with low oil levels, let's discuss how frequently you need to change oil. Depending on how old and the make of your vehicle, you should get an oil change every 3,000 to 10,000 miles.
If your car uses conventional oil, you'll typically need an oil change every 3,000-4,000 miles. On the other hand, semi-synthetic or fully synthetic can last much longer. One way to know for sure is to consult your car's owner's manual. It will have a suggestion based on your driving habits and the oil you use.
What If I See A Check Oil Light?
A check oil light indicator is something you should never take lightly. It means your oil level is critically low, and you need to add more oil immediately. Ignoring this light could result in severe engine damage, so it's best to pull over and turn off your car as soon as possible.
If you don't have oil on hand, the best thing to do would be to call a tow truck. The last thing you want to do is drive your car without oil because it could cause irreversible damage.
Why Service With Jessup Auto Plaza?
If you need an oil change, schedule an appointment with us here at Jessup Auto Plaza. We have a modern facility with expert technicians and use the latest tools and technology to service your vehicle.
We only use the best quality oil, so you can rest assured your engine is getting the lubrication it needs. Our team of certified mechanics takes pride in knowing we'll get the job done quickly and efficiently so that you can get back on the road.
Contact Our Dealership In Cathedral City, CA For An Appointment
Don't run the risk of driving your car with low oil levels. Our service department is here to ensure you don't run into this problem with routine oil changes, and we also ensure everything else is in working order. Schedule an appointment with us today, and we'll have you in and out in no time. We look forward to servicing your vehicle!