Why is changing engine oils on a regular basis important?
Over time, the oil will deteriorate and become less efficient at providing good lubrication. Two main reasons are: 1. To remove contaminants that degrade the oil Moisture (condensation) Un-burnt fuel (ie fuel dilution) Soot (by product of combustion, especially in diesels) Oxidation and Nitration By-products 2. To refresh the oil Additives in the oil deteriorate over time. Detergents (that help keep the engine clean and neautrlaise acidic by-products), dispersants (that hold contaminants in the oil) deplete over time and even the anti-wear additives need to be replaced.