What is the Importance of an Oil Change?
We all hear time and time again that the most important service you can schedule for your car, but why? Well, oil is the most critical part of your cooling system and is the primary lubricant for the internal components of your engine. Neglecting to have regular oil change services can ultimately lead to expensive, otherwise avoidable repairs.
Fundamentally, an oil change consists of draining and refilling your engine oil and installing a new replacement filter. Here is the process. First, we remove the sump plug to drain the oil, remove the old filter, replace the drain plug and add oil, refilling to the correct amount based on factory specifications.
What does an Oil and Filter Change Do for my Car?
Oil goes bad. No matter how well you drive, dirt and debris end up in your engine oil. The quality of oil you run in your car prevents or increases friction, which causes avoidable stress and wears on the internal components of your engine. In short, an oil and filter change extends the lifespan of your car, reducing the chances of experiencing severe engine issues.
What is the Purpose of Oil in a Car?
Engine oil keeps the moving parts lubricated, which helps them work efficiently during the combustion phase of the operation. Metal parts rubbing together cause warping and sanding, reducing the engine's ability to fire each cylinder. Oil needs to be in the engine, and it needs to be clean to serve you properly. Oil traps dust and dirt, not to mention any other particulates that may find their way into your intake. Engine oil circulates through a filter that traps unwelcome foreign debris, allowing your engine to operate in peak condition. If there is a blockage in this filtration system, severe damage may occur.
What is the difference between an Oil Filter Change and an Oil Filter Service?
There are several differences between an oil service and an oil filter change, primarily safety checks. Oil change services include a multi-point inspection and take a bit longer to perform.
What is the Lifespan of Engine Oil?
Well, many factors involve the lifespan of oil, such as engine temperature, condition of your engine, and type of oil used. Engine oil can last 3,000 miles or up to 10,000 miles. Keeping dirt and debris out of your engine essentially keeps your engine from having to work harder than necessary.
What Type of Oil does my Car Need?
This day and age, semi-synthetics are commonly recommended. Every vehicle manufacturer writes in their owner's manual what oil is recommended, and this will help you determine what oil is right for your vehicle.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
Although it varies by vehicle, most cars using semi-synthetic oil should have an oil change every 5,000 miles. Fully synthetic oil should be changed every 10,000 miles. If you are an aggressive driver, you may want to change your oil more frequently. Adding extra stress to your engine means more debris in your lubricant. The older your oil, the less effective it becomes. The oil will still break down over time even if you don't drive very often.
How Do I Check My Engine Oil?
Checking your engine oil is easy to do at home. It only takes a couple of minutes and can save a LOT of stress. Here is how: Pull the dipstick out and wipe it dry. Plunge the dipstick back into the hole all the way and pull it out again to read the oil level on the dipstick.
When Do I Know to Book an Engine Oil Service?
If your oil looks dirty or milky and has sludge or gunk on the dipstick, schedule an appointment right away. Good quality oil should be clean, fairly transparent, and smooth. If your oil is low, you may have a slow leak, or it has been a while since your last oil change service. Some cars have a maintenance light to remind you that an oil change is due. If it has been a while since your last oil change, it may be time to book an appointment with the expert auto repair team at John's Automotive Care in La Mesa. We are here to help you will all of your auto repair needs!