Owning a car with a lot of miles on the odometer comes with a sense of pride, but it also requires a bit more care than a newer vehicle. High mileage cars, typically those with over 75,000 miles, demand extra attention to keep them running smoothly. Regular maintenance becomes increasingly important, and one of the key aspects of caring for an older vehicle is ensuring it gets the right type of oil. But why exactly do high mileage cars need special oil, and what other areas should you focus on to prolong your car's life?
The Impact of High Mileage on Your Car’s Engine
As your car racks up miles, it starts to show signs of wear and tear, especially under the hood. Engine parts like seals, gaskets, and pistons experience more stress, leading to oil leaks, decreased fuel efficiency, and overall performance issues. One of the primary challenges for high-mileage cars is oil breakdown. Over time, the engine oil begins to lose its effectiveness, becoming less able to lubricate the engine components and protect them from heat and friction. This is where special high-mileage oil comes into play.
Why Regular Oil Isn't Enough for High Mileage Cars
While conventional oil does a good job of lubricating and protecting engines, high-mileage vehicles have unique needs. As engines age, seals start to dry out, leading to oil leaks. Regular oil doesn’t address this issue, but high-mileage oil is formulated with seal conditioners that help reduce leaks by softening and expanding the seals.
Furthermore, older engines are more prone to sludge buildup. High mileage oil contains detergents that help to break down this sludge, keeping the engine cleaner and more efficient. The viscosity of the oil also plays a role. As engine components wear down, a thicker oil can provide better protection and reduce the risk of metal-on-metal contact, which can cause further wear.
The Benefits of Switching to High Mileage Oil
Switching to high-mileage oil offers several benefits for an older car:
- Improved Seal Protection: The seal conditioners in high mileage oil can help prevent leaks, which are a common issue for cars with more than 75,000 miles.
- Enhanced Engine Cleanliness: High mileage oils contain more robust detergents, which help to reduce sludge buildup. This helps maintain your engine’s performance and prolong its life.
- Better Lubrication: As engines age, they require better lubrication to keep moving parts from wearing down. The additives in high-mileage oil provide that extra layer of protection, particularly in engines that have started to show signs of wear.
If you’ve noticed oil leaks, burning oil, or declining engine performance in your high mileage car, switching to a specialized oil may be one of the simplest solutions to these problems.
Other Areas of Concern for High Mileage Cars
It’s not just about the oil. High-mileage vehicles need regular inspections and timely repairs to stay in good shape. Keeping an eye on the following areas can make all the difference:
- Cooling System: Older engines are more prone to overheating. Check the radiator, hoses, and coolant levels regularly to avoid major issues.
- Transmission Fluid: Just like engine oil, transmission fluid degrades over time. Regularly checking and replacing it can prevent costly transmission repairs.
- Suspension Components: After years on the road, your suspension system may start to wear out, affecting the comfort of your ride. Have the shocks, struts, and bushings inspected to ensure a smooth ride.
- Brakes: Brake systems take a lot of wear, especially in high mileage vehicles. Replacing brake pads and checking the condition of the rotors and calipers will help you avoid dangerous situations on the road.
When to Switch to High Mileage Oil
Not all cars with over 75,000 miles need high mileage oil right away, but if your car is showing signs like oil leaks, burning oil, or declining engine performance, it’s probably time to consider switching. Even if your engine isn’t currently experiencing any major problems, preventative maintenance with high-mileage oil can help ensure it stays running smoothly for many more miles to come.
Choosing the right oil is just one part of the equation. Maintaining your car’s engine through regular checkups and addressing any small problems before they turn into bigger issues is key to keeping your high-mileage car on the road for as long as possible.
Don’t wait for engine problems to arise! Bring your high mileage vehicle to Lorentz Automotive for a thorough inspection and an oil change tailored to older engines. Contact us now to make your appointment.