(NAPSA)—The nation’s top mechanics are rejecting the recommendation by some in the auto field that cars can go 5,000 miles or more beforeoil is changed. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)certified Master Automobile technicians weighed in on this and other issues in a survey conducted by Valvoline. The survey covered the controversial recommendation and trend toward longer intervals between oil changes, as well as the costs to car owners of delayed maintenance. “Certified Master Automobile Technicians are the best of the best,” said ASE President Ron Weiner. “Theyare on the front lines of taking care of today’s vehicles and they have definite thoughts on how motorists can participate in making their cars and trucks run better andlast longer.” Oil Change Frequency Mechanics view oil as the lifeblood of the car engine, with 84 percent saying not getting a regu- lar oil change can cause the most problemsfor a vehicle, when compared to other maintenance issues. Sixty percent said theoil should be changed at 3,000 miles—the longtime, recom- mended standard. According to the survey, Valvoline remains the number one choice of ASE Master Automobile Technicians for use in their own cars and trucks, and is the brand of motor oil most recommended by them to customers, friends and relatives. “Changing oil with quality motoroil, like Valvoline, at regular intervals is the best way to prevent damage to your car’s engine and keep more money in your Regular oil changes are key to a car’s continued performance, according to top mechanics. pocket,” said Valvoline Marketing Director Bryan Emrich. He added that regular oil changes protect the engine and reduce sludge, which can impact engine performance and cause costly repairs. Delayed Car Maintenance While car owners know,intel- lectually and intuitively, that reg- ular maintenance is important to keeping their four-wheeled investment in safe condition and working order, the reality is that more and more Americans are notlistening to conventional and proven wisdom. The vast majority of mechanics—87 percent—said they believe American car owners are putting off routine maintenance, mostly for cost reasons. Ironically, they overwhelmingly said—at 97 percent—that delayed care will cost an owner much more in the long run, as problemsleft unattended can multiply and lead to other issues. To learn more about ASE, visit www.ase.com. For more survey findings, visit www.valvoline.com.
