Why do I need to change my engine oil?

article-9-thumbThe main purpose of engine oil is to stop metal touching metal. An engine contains hundreds of moving parts that must be kept separate from each other. If metal surfaces come in contact with each other, wear may occur and friction will increase. With friction comes heat, and heat will warp and distort moving engine parts. Engine oil creates a slick film between metal parts that lets them glide over each other. Engine oil also;

•Reduces friction and prevents wear
•Allows for easier starting
•Seals tiny gaps between the piston rings and cylinder walls
•Cools moving parts by dispersing heat
•Keeps engine surfaces clean
•Holds foreign deposits (like by-products of combustion) in suspension away from engine parts
•Prevents rust and corrosion

Conventional base oils are made from crude oil which has undergone a certain extraction process and minor chemical restructuring in an oil refinery.
Synthetics differ from conventional base oils in that they are synthesised from relatively pure chemicals for specifically designed performance characteristics.
Synthetic base stocks generally offer superior low temperature flow properties and enhanced response to certain engine additives.
Regardless of the type of base stocks used, it is necessary to combine them with additives to meet the demanding requirements of modern engines.
Additives are the “Active ingredient” in engine oils. These additives must be replenished through regular oil changes.
After a period of use, engine oil deteriorates and becomes unable to do an efficient job lubricating and cooling engine parts.

This engine has failed due to sludge build up caused by lack of proper oil changes. It has only travelled 75,000 klms and mostly city commuting
This engine has been serviced correctly in accordance with Manufacturer specifications using only quality Valvoline oil. It has travelled 553,000 klms and has been used as a Courier vehicle
This engine has failed due to sludge build up