People who missed or did not qualify for the government-funded "Cash for Clunkers" program may instead be thinking about how to get more years of service out of the vehicle they now own. In fact, the average age of cars and light trucks on United States. roads today has reached a record high of 9.4 years, making it more important than ever for consumers to take proper care of their vehicles.
As motor oil is the lifeblood of a vehicle's engine, industry-leading brands – Pennzoil, Quaker State and Shell Rotella have introduced a new consumer education program, including a Web site www.MotorOilMatters.org, as part of an initiative to educate consumers about the importance of quality motor oil and the role it can play in helping prolong an engine's life and improve its overall efficiency.
Automotive expert Alan Taylor, the host of Car and Driver Radio and lifelong auto enthusiast, has been tapped to help drivers understand that motor oil really does matter.
"For many Americans, their vehicle is their second largest investment, so getting the most out of their car in the current economic climate has become more important than ever," Taylor said. "Drivers need to understand why the quality of motor oil matters to their car and to their pocketbook. Educating consumers so that they understand the value quality motor oils provide is our goal."
Applauded by industry organizations, the initiative urges consumers to be aware of the oil that goes into their engines. Off-brand, no-name or discount oils that do not meet industry standards or the vehicle manufacturer's requirements could cost consumers in the long run by potentially damaging the vehicle's engine or possibly voiding the manufacturer's warranty.
"The American Petroleum Institute applauds the Motor Oil Matters initiative," said Kevin Ferrick, manager for engine oil licensing at API. "Consumers need to pay attention when they purchase motor oil for their gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles – asking by name for a quality product that meets or exceeds the API's Engine Oil Quality standards and bears the API Service Symbol 'Donut' and Certification Mark 'Starburst'."
The Web site www.MotorOilMatters.org is designed to provide consumers with the information they need to make an informed decision when it comes to motor oil and their vehicle. The site contains important industry facts, recent industry news as well as real-life stories from experts and consumers who share their insights on why motor oil has mattered in their vehicles.
"MotorOilMatters.org helps explain to consumers why paying a few dollars more for a quality motor oil makes sense, especially when you consider what is at stake: increased fuel economy, minimized emissions and the potential to save money by preventing costly engine damage," said Luis Guimaraes, vice president of marketing for Shell Lubricants, Americas.
The Web site also features an interactive quiz along with answers to the most commonly asked questions and most popular myths about motor oil, including why consumers should change their vehicle's oil regularly with high-quality motor oil that meets the latest API specifications and use the oil weight and drain interval recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer.
To find an installer of our quality branded motor oils, or for more information as well as helpful advice, visit www.MotorOilMatters.org.