Does Summer Driving Increase Oil Change Frequency? Find Out at AES!

Summer is here! Time for road trips, beach days, and exploring the great outdoors. But while you’re enjoying the sunshine and open road, your vehicle is working harder than ever. That raises a common question: Does summer driving necessitate more frequent oil changes? At AES, we’re here to break it down and help you keep your engine running smoothly all season long.

Why Summer Heat is Hard on Your Engine

Think about it: blazing asphalt, scorching temperatures under the hood, and the relentless demands of stop-and-go traffic. Summer driving conditions put a significant strain on your engine oil. Here’s why:

• Increased Engine Temperatures: Hot weather directly impacts engine temperature. Your engine has to work harder to stay cool, leading to increased friction and heat.
• Oil Thinning: High temperatures can cause your engine oil to thin out, reducing its ability to properly lubricate critical engine components. Thinner oil is less effective at preventing wear and tear.
• Increased Oxidation: Heat accelerates the oxidation process of your oil, causing it to break down and become less effective over time. This leads to sludge buildup and reduced engine performance.
• Heavy Loads: Summer often means hauling extra passengers, luggage, or even towing boats or trailers. This increased load puts even more stress on your engine and oil.
• Air Conditioning Use: Running your air conditioning constantly adds to the engine’s workload, further increasing its temperature and demanding more from your oil.

Signs Your Oil Needs Changing Sooner Than Expected

While the manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval is a good starting point, summer driving can push your oil beyond its limits faster than you might think. Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

• Dark or Dirty Oil: Regularly check your oil using the dipstick. If it appears dark, gritty, or sludgy, it’s time for a change.
• Engine Knocking or Ticking: This can indicate that your engine isn’t getting enough lubrication, potentially due to degraded oil.
• Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Old or degraded oil can reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy.
• Oil Light On: This is a serious warning sign. Don’t ignore it! Get your oil checked immediately.
• Rough Idling: If your engine idles roughly or stalls frequently, it could be a sign of oil-related issues.

Summer Driving Habits That Demand More Frequent Oil Changes

Certain driving habits during the summer can significantly shorten the lifespan of your oil:

• Frequent Stop-and-Go Traffic: Idling in traffic generates a lot of heat without much airflow to cool the engine.
• Towing Heavy Loads: Towing puts immense strain on the engine, demanding more from the oil.
• Off-Roading: Driving on dusty or dirty roads can contaminate your oil more quickly.
• Extended Road Trips: Long drives at high speeds can push your engine oil to its limits.

How to Protect Your Engine During the Summer Months

Here are a few proactive steps you can take to protect your engine and extend the life of your oil during the summer:

• Use the Correct Oil Type: Consult your owner’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct oil viscosity and specification for your vehicle and driving conditions. Synthetic oils generally offer better protection at high temperatures.
• Check Your Oil Level Regularly: Monitor your oil level frequently, especially before and after long trips.
• Consider Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oils are more resistant to breakdown and offer superior protection in extreme temperatures compared to conventional oils.
• Don’t Skip Scheduled Maintenance: Stick to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil and filter changes.

AES: Your Summer Engine Care Experts

At AES, we understand the demands that summer driving puts on your vehicle. Our experienced technicians can help you determine the optimal oil change frequency for your specific driving conditions and ensure your engine stays protected all season long. We offer a variety of oil change services using high-quality oils and filters. We’ll also perform a comprehensive inspection to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

Conclusion: Prioritize Engine Health for Summer Adventures

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether summer driving increases oil change frequency, the reality is that extreme heat and demanding driving conditions often necessitate more frequent changes. By paying attention to your driving habits, monitoring your oil condition, and trusting the experts at AES, you can keep your engine running smoothly and enjoy worry-free summer adventures. Schedule your oil change with AES today and get your vehicle ready for the road!