Oil itself isn’t very expensive and oil changes aren’t very difficult or time consuming, but neglecting the oil inside your vehicle can have disastrous consequences later on, especially for your wallet. Oil plays a vital, multifaceted role in your engine. But over time, as motor oil breaks down and gets dirty, oil can actually start to have a negative effect on the engine’s performance, efficiency, and overall health. Read on to learn more about the importance of the oil inside your car and why you shouldn’t delay getting an oil change in Sacramento . 
What Oil Does
The modern internal combustion engine requires the right lubrication to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. First of all, motor oil keeps all the moving parts lubricated to minimize friction, heat, and wear that can lead to premature engine failure. Oil also helps keep engines cool, which is especially important in the summertime when engines are more likely to overheat. And because a cool, well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently, keeping your engine loaded up with fresh clean oil can help maximize your gas mileage.
Why Oil Changes are Important
Motor oil gets dirty and breaks down over time, which causes it to lose its lubricating abilities. That’s why going past the manufacturer-recommended oil change intervals is considered to be one of the worst things you can do for your vehicle. Driving on old, dirty oil will cause unlubricated engine components to warp and wear out due to friction and heat, which will eventually lead to engine problems that will need to be addressed by a mechanic. Eventually, if the oil is not changed, the entire engine will fail and need to be replaced.
Signs You Need an Oil Change
So, how do you know when it’s time for an oil change? First, refer to your owner’s manual. Each manufacturer recommends different oil change intervals for their vehicles. There are also some signs that can indicate it’s time for an oil change , such as dirty, burnt-smelling oil and an engine that runs louder than usual. If you recognize these signs, or if you simply don’t remember the last time you had an oil change, visit an auto repair shop in Sacramento for this important service.