When you own a car, you're responsible for maintaining it. Fortunately, most vehicle care is fairly basic. However, it's often the simplest maintenance that people overlook or put off. Oil changes are a perfect example. They are incredibly important for the health and well-being of your vehicle. But, if you neglect them, it can cause major problems. Here are some of the many reasons why oil changes are vital for any vehicle.

Save On Fuel

Not only are regular oil changes good for your car, but they're also good for your wallet. When a bunch of old oil is sloshing around in your car's tank, this can greatly reduce how many miles per gallon your vehicle averages. As a result, you'll get less bang for your buck fuel-wise. This means you'll have to fuel up much more often. And, while increasing gas costs can negatively affect anyone, they're particularly painful for people who drive very frequently and for long stretches, such as commuters or those prone to road trips.

Protect Your Engine

Oil changes don't just matter because they increase gas mileage. While that's certainly a nice perk, what's even more important is that they can protect your engine. Your car's engine is made up of lots of intricate, moving, and expensive-to-repair parts. Without an adequate amount of lubrication, which oil provides, these parts can easily break down and become worn. This, in turn, breaks down your engine faster and can shorten its lifespan, as well as the lifespan of your vehicle. Thus, staying on top of oil changes, as well as other general maintenance, won't just help your car to run better. It may just help it to run for longer, too.

Prevent More Serious Problems

Oil changes are a very basic form of maintenance. But, when they're performed by a professional, they allow an expert to get up close and personal with your vehicle. And, though a mechanic may only be focused on the oil change, skilled professionals will often notice other problems if they exist. In this regard, a basic oil change can serve as a sort of "check-up" for your car, though it's no substitute for regular inspections and routine maintenance. Issues discovered through frequent oil changes, however, can often be caught and remedied in the earliest stages, preventing costly repairs and more serious concerns.

Ultimately, it's up to you to take great care of your car. But, if you need somewhere to start or just want a small but meaningful maintenance task to commit to, frequent oil changes are your best bet. Contact an oil change service for more information.