Tri Valley Auto Repair & Diesel explains that the importance of oil changes cannot be overstated because the oil filter is changed, as well. The motor oil flows through the filter after it is circulated through the engine so that the filter can remove the dirt the oil picked up. This ensures you always have clean motor oil circulating through your engine. Failing to have your oil changed regularly can clog the oil filter and create the problems listed below. If your vehicle is suffering from any of these problems, schedule an oil change with our shop right away.
Reduced Power Production
If the oil filter is unable to clean the motor oil, the dirty motor oil will deposit grime throughout the engine. This will reduce the engine’s power production because it will slow down the moving parts. Unfortunately, you will notice that your engine is struggling to perform and lagging.
Reduced Fuel Economy
Your automobile will also suffer from a reduction in the fuel economy because of the engine performance trouble. Unfortunately, the dirty motor oil is affecting the engine’s efficiency. When this happens, the engine will blow through the gasoline or diesel fuel quicker than it normally would. As such, you will find yourself filling the tank more often than you normally do.
Reduced Oil Pressure
Another problem caused by an oil filter that has been clogged by dirt and grime is a reduction in the engine’s oil pressure. This will cause the oil to circulate slowly through the engine and create problems with the lubrication and protection of the engine. As such, the engine control unit will turn on the oil light to let you know there is a problem with the motor oil. In this case, it’s the clogged filter.
Strange Engine Noises
You may also start to hear strange noises coming from the engine that are metallic in nature. The minute you hear the first grind or clank, pull over and cut the engine. These noises suggest that you don’t have any oil circulating through the engine. If you drive your automobile without oil in the engine, you will kill the engine within 30 minutes.
Increased Hydrocarbons
Finally, because the dirty motor oil is depositing grime throughout the engine, the engine will produce more hydrocarbons. Consequently, you will have increased hydrocarbons in your exhaust.
Tri Valley Auto Repair & Diesel in Limon, CO, is here to help, so bring your vehicle in for an oil change right away if it is doing any of the things listed above.