The number one way to protect your vehicle and the investment you've made into it is to stay on top of routine maintenance like oil changes. Despite the importance of this, it's estimated that 7.9% of consumers report they delay routine vehicle maintenance, according to Automotive Research. If you have a habit of procrastinating on car maintenance, here are a few good reasons why you should get your oil changed often.

Protect Your Engine

The motor oil in your vehicle is intended to protect your engine and help it run more smoothly and efficiently. If you neglect oil changes, you are putting your engine at risk of damage and possible breakdown. When oil is old and dirty, the engine can't operate as efficiently. This will lead to poor gas mileage and poor performance overall.

If your vehicle doesn't have enough oil in it, you may experience serious engine damage. As time passes, the oil in the vehicle burns up to some degree. So, you have less and less oil present in the vehicle. This is why during an oil change you'll get fresh oil that is topped off at the right amounts to ensure that your engine is safe from damage and prevent an expensive car repair.

Protect the Value of Your Vehicle

In addition to protecting the engine of the car, you are also protecting the value of your car by having regular oil changes. Most people intend to keep a vehicle for a few years and then sell it or trade it in. The trade-in value of a vehicle is greatly affected by the type and frequency of maintenance that has been done on the vehicle. Getting regular oil changes by professionals and keeping all of the paperwork showing the maintenance will increase your chances of reselling or trading in at a good price.

Receive Better Gas Mileage

Today, everyone is concerned with their gas mileage. With fuel prices constantly fluctuating, it's important to keep your vehicle in good shape so that it's using fuel efficiently. Frequent oil changes always keep your gas mileage reasonable. As soon as your vehicle starts needing an oil change, gas mileage starts to decrease. You can get more out of your gas budget when you have regular oil changes.

These are just a few reasons why you should pay attention to oil changes. If you're looking for a reliable car repair shop for maintenance and repairs, please contact us today at Westmont Shell Auto and Towing.