If you're like many modern consumers, you often feel that your time is frequently stretched beyond reasonable limits, and for that reason, you find yourself putting off routine vehicle maintenance tasks such as having the oil in your car changed on a regular basis. However, vehicles last longer and perform better when owners are proactive about preventive care. Fortunately, an oil change should take 30-60 minutes from start to finish. Here's what else you need to know. 

Old Oil Is Dirty Oil

The main reason why your vehicle's oil should be changed on a regular basis is that dirt and debris buildup has the potential to cause damage to the moving parts of your engine. This is of particular concern for those who drive in dusty or dirty conditions, especially if seasonal use of road salts is a part of the picture. 

Oil Changes Increase Your MPG

Nobody likes to pay more at the gas pump than necessary. Clean oil keeps the moving parts of your engine properly lubricated, and one of the benefits you'll enjoy is increased gas mileage. 

Oil Changes Result in Lower Emissions

Old oil that's full of dirt and debris is often the culprit when noxious emissions are being produced, particularly in older vehicles. This can be problematic for those who live in areas where municipal regulations apply to the amount of acceptable emissions a vehicle is allowed to produce. In some areas, you may face a fine if your vehicle is noncompliant concerning emissions standards. 

Oil Changes Help Cars Live Longer

A well-oiled engine is simply going to last longer than its neglected counterpart. Dirty oil causes friction that puts unnecessary stress on moving parts, causing breakdowns and malfunctions that ultimately lead to decreased engine lives.

Newer Cars Don't Need as Frequent Oil Changes as Their Older Counterparts

Conventional wisdom used to say that oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. However, thanks to advances in automotive technology as well as improvement in the quality of motor oil, newer vehicles that run on synthetic oil may be able to go as long as 10,000 miles between oil changes without risking any damage to the engine or other possible negative consequences.  Keep in mind that you can always take some reading material with you to fill up the time it takes for an oil change. You'll probably appreciate the break, and your car will thank you as well.