Oil changes can improve the performance of your car

According to Raymond Abraham, commercial technical manager of Shell South Africa, motorists need to think carefully about the type of oil necessary for their engines.

Today synthetic oil brands are available for almost every engine. Over the past decade, they have been one of the fastest growing segments of the oil industry globally.

"It is no longer about the quantity of fuel going into your tank, but rather on how well that quantity is spent on the road in conjunction with the oil used in your engine," says Abraham.

Choosing the correct oil

Abraham says that engine oil, if chosen correctly, can work to protect your engine's moving parts while also significantly improving your vehicle's fuel efficiency and performance.

"A basic understanding between synthetic and mineral oils, can give any motorist the confidence to gladly accept an oil change which will ultimately lead to a cleaner engine that operates more efficiently, delivers more power and consumes less fuel," says Abraham.

He says that synthetic oils can last up to three times longer than regular oils as they are designed to flow more easily at start-up temperatures. They are more resistant to heat and protect against wear more readily.

Motorists are advised to change their oil and filter at or before the end of oil-change intervals as indicated by their vehicle manufacturers. These are based on distance travelled or time lapsed, whichever occurs first.

So, the next time you top-up your engine oil remember that the oil you choose must protect your car's engine against wear and tear, reduce sludge and filter deposits away from critical parts.

"Regular oil changing helps to keep your engine oil in good condition and provide the best protection for all of your engine components, think of it as your cheapest spare part". The reality is that regular oil change keeps your engine from premature wear, concludes Abraham.