If your car’s engine is louder than usual or smoke is coming from the exhaust pipe, it could be a sign that your engine oil is overdue for a change. And that’s a big problem for both your car’s performance and your safety on the road.
Many drivers tend to put off or skip oil changes, but keeping up with regular oil services offers some key benefits. Here’s why oil service is crucial and how it helps keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Keeps the Engine Lubricated
Your car’s engine has several moving parts that operate at high speeds and temperatures. The oil helps keep everything lubricated, reducing friction and preventing those parts from wearing out too soon. Without enough oil, these parts would rub against each other, causing major damage and potentially leading to expensive repairs—or worse, a total engine failure. Dirty oil also makes it harder for the engine parts to glide smoothly, which increases friction and makes the engine run louder than usual.
Enhances Engine Performance and Efficiency
As engine oil ages, it breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt, metal particles, and other debris. Dirty or old oil is less effective at reducing friction, which means your engine must work harder to perform. This not only reduces fuel efficiency but can also lead to sluggish performance. By getting regular oil changes, you help maintain clean oil in your engine, which optimizes performance and keeps it running efficiently.
Prevents Overheating
A key function of oil is to absorb heat generated by the engine. Without adequate oil, or if the oil has degraded, the engine components can overheat. Fresh oil helps absorb this heat more effectively and regulates engine temperature, reducing the risk of overheating and potential damage to your engine.
Helps with Early Problem Detection
Regular oil service often includes a basic inspection of your vehicle, allowing mechanics to spot potential issues early on. They may notice signs of leaks, worn parts, or other concerns that could turn into bigger problems if left unchecked. By catching these issues early, you can address them promptly, saving you from costly repairs down the line.
Improves Fuel Economy
When your engine is well-lubricated and running smoothly, it uses fuel more efficiently. Old, dirty oil forces the engine to work harder, which results in higher fuel consumption. Regular oil changes help you save on fuel costs, making your car more economical in the long run.
The frequency of oil changes can depend on your vehicle’s make and model, as well as your driving conditions and habits. Typically, many experts recommend an oil change every 4,800 to 8,000 kilometers, but it’s always best to consult a trusted mechanic. Modern vehicles often have indicators that alert you when it’s time for an oil change, so keep an eye on those signals as well.
Regular oil service is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your car’s longevity, performance, and reliability. Skipping oil changes might save time in the short term, but the long-term consequences—such as engine wear, costly repairs, and decreased fuel efficiency—are not worth the risk.
Our oil services at @thewheel are designed to be both affordable and accessible, with competitive pricing starting at just 55,000 Tsh. We exclusively use genuine oil and filter brands like BOSCH, TOTAL, and TOYOTA, providing your engine with reliable, high-quality performance and enhanced longevity.
Don’t wait until problems arise. Call us at 0800 11 00 14 or visit any of our branches in Kamata, Kawe, Magomeni, Mikocheni, Oysterbay, Dodoma or Arusha Town to schedule your next oil service.
We are always here to assist with all your car service needs. Keep your car running smoothly for years to come with trusted, quality care from our team.