Don’t skip out on winter oil changes to prolong the life of your car

Oil changes are a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance and even more important in cold weather. As temperatures drop, motor oil can thicken, reducing its ability to flow smoothly through the engine. This decreased viscosity can cause increased friction and wear on engine components. Here’s what you need to know.

Utmost importance Winter oil changes are a necessity. They ensure your engine is always filled with fresh oil that can effectively lubricate and protect its parts, even in low temperatures. Cold weather can also cause condensation inside the engine. Fresh oil acts as a shield, mitigating this risk and providing better protection and performance.

Moreover, old or dirty oil can become sludgy in cold weather, which can impede the engine’s ability to start smoothly in cold conditions. This sludge can also block vital passages, further stressing the engine and leading to potential damage over time.

Get the right oil Using the right oil type for winter is crucial. Many manufacturers recommend synthetic oils for cold weather because they maintain better viscosity at low temperatures, ensuring smoother engine operation.

When choosing oil, pay attention to the viscosity ratings, particularly the “W,” which stands for “winter.” It indicates the oil’s thickness at colder temperatures. For example, oils labelled with lower numbers before the “W,” such as 5W-30 or 0W-30, offer better protection in winter weather compared to oils with a higher number, like 10W40.

Visit your local auto repair shop for a winter oil change.