Should You Change Your Oil More Often in Hot Weather? A Burning Question Answered by AES

Summer is here, and with it comes sunshine, road trips, and…potential stress on your car’s engine. You’ve probably heard that hot weather can impact your vehicle’s performance, but what about specifically your oil? Should you be changing it more frequently when the temperatures soar? At AES, we understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle, and we’re here to shed some light on this burning question.

Understanding Oil’s Role: More Than Just Lubrication

Before we dive into the hot weather aspect, let’s quickly recap what your engine oil actually *does*. It’s not just about lubrication! Engine oil performs several critical functions:

• Reduces Friction: This is the obvious one. Oil creates a thin film between moving parts, preventing them from grinding against each other and causing wear.
• Cools the Engine: Oil absorbs heat from the engine’s components, helping to regulate its temperature.
• Cleans the Engine: Oil carries away dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts that can accumulate and damage internal parts.
• Protects Against Corrosion: Oil contains additives that neutralize acids and prevent rust formation.
• Seals the Engine: Oil helps to create a tight seal between the piston rings and cylinder walls, maximizing compression and power.

Hot Weather’s Impact on Engine Oil: The Heat is On!

High temperatures can significantly impact your engine oil. Here’s how:

• Increased Viscosity Breakdown: Extreme heat can cause oil to thin out, reducing its viscosity. This means it’s less effective at lubricating and protecting engine components. Think of it like this: if you were using syrup to lubricate your door hinges, it wouldn’t be as effective when it’s hot and runny.
• Accelerated Oxidation: Heat accelerates the oxidation process, causing the oil to break down and form sludge. Sludge can clog oil passages, restrict oil flow, and lead to engine damage.
• Higher Engine Temperatures: Even with a properly functioning cooling system, your engine will run hotter in hot weather. This puts additional stress on the oil to dissipate heat.

So, Should You Change Your Oil More Often? The Verdict!

The answer is…it depends! While modern synthetic oils are designed to withstand higher temperatures and last longer than traditional oils, hot weather conditions can still accelerate their degradation. Here are some factors to consider:

• Your Vehicle’s Manufacturer Recommendations: Always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval. This is the most important guideline to follow.
• Driving Habits: Stop-and-go traffic, towing, and aggressive driving put extra strain on your engine and oil. If you frequently engage in these activities, especially in hot weather, shortening your oil change interval is a good idea.
• Type of Oil: Synthetic oils generally offer better protection and last longer than conventional oils, especially in hot weather. Consider switching to a synthetic oil if you’re not already using one.
• Your Car’s Age and Condition: Older vehicles or those with high mileage may benefit from more frequent oil changes, especially if they’re prone to leaks or oil consumption.

AES Recommendations for Hot Weather Oil Changes

As a general guideline, if you experience any of the following, consider shortening your oil change interval:

• Frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic in hot weather
• Towing heavy loads
• Aggressive driving
• Operating your vehicle in extremely dusty or dirty conditions

If none of those apply, sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended interval is usually sufficient. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a trusted mechanic like the experts at AES.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Protect Your Engine!

Changing your oil is a relatively inexpensive way to protect your engine and extend its lifespan. Don’t wait until you experience problems. Schedule an oil change at AES today! Our experienced technicians will help you determine the best oil and change interval for your vehicle and driving conditions.

Give your engine the love it deserves this summer. Contact AES today for all your oil change and maintenance needs!