Are you planning a long road trip? If so, you may be wondering if it’s a good idea to get an oil change before hitting the road.
An oil change is an essential part of car maintenance, but is it necessary right before a long drive? Let’s find out.
Why Get an Oil Change?
Before we dive into whether or not you should get an oil change before a long road trip, let’s first understand why getting an oil change is important. The primary purpose of oil in a car engine is to lubricate its moving parts and reduce friction. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, making it less effective at doing its job.
Regularly changing your car’s oil helps to keep the engine running smoothly and can prevent costly damage from occurring. In general, car manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months (whichever comes first).
Should You Get an Oil Change Before a Long Road Trip?
Now that we know why getting an oil change is important let’s address whether or not you should get one specifically before a long road trip. The answer is: it depends.
If your car is due for an oil change based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, then yes – you should get one before embarking on a long journey. This will ensure that your engine has fresh, clean oil and will be able to function optimally during the trip.
However, if your car isn’t due for an oil change yet but you still want to get one before your trip for peace of mind – go ahead! It certainly won’t hurt anything and could provide added assurance that your vehicle will perform well during the drive.
Other Considerations
While getting an oil change before a long road trip can be beneficial in terms of ensuring your car is in top condition, there are other factors to consider as well. For example, you should also check your tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels before hitting the road. It’s also a good idea to have your car inspected by a mechanic if you haven’t done so recently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting an oil change before a long road trip can be beneficial if your car is due for one based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, even if your car isn’t due for an oil change yet – it certainly won’t hurt anything to get one before your trip for added peace of mind. Remember to also check other important components of your vehicle before hitting the road for a safe and enjoyable journey.