HOUSTON — As motor oil is the lifeblood of a vehicle’s engine, Pennzoil, Quaker State and Shell Rotella have introduced a new consumer education program 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.

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."

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 companies said.

The program’s Web site, www.MotorOilMatters.org, provides important industry facts, recent industry news and real-life stories from experts and consumers who share their insights on why motor oil has mattered in their vehicles.

The 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.