What’s the fuss about oil changes?
How often should you get an oil change service?
You’ve probably asked the first question one time too many. Whether your vehicle is big, small, or somewhere in between, you may be stressed by oil changes. At the extremes, some people completely ignore oil change due dates.
This isn’t actually an auto problem but a compulsory part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance. If you neglect this step, you just might end up with the very distressing clunking or struggling engine.
Your vehicle’s oil performs a wide range of functions. Like the dedicated deep-frying oil in your kitchen, your engine oil needs to be changed regularly.
Typically, somewhere between 3000 and 6000 miles or a period of three months works great. It is often better to use mileage instead of duration.
Here’s what happens when you don’t change your oil as needed. Dirt particles accumulate and can greatly reduce the efficiency of your engine. This will lead to avoidable wear and tear.
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What’s involved in an oil change service?
An oil change is more than just ‘drain and fill’. It’s crucial maintenance.
Here’s what it entails:
Step 1
An inspection for leaks and low levels. This is an important step because it’d be wasteful to fill a leaky container. Dirty/old oil may change color. At this point, you may be offered some advice as necessary.
Step 2
Next comes oil drainage. Your vehicle is lifted using a car jack and car jack stands to ensure safety. The drain plug is loosened by attaching a socket to the ratchet and slowly turning counter-clockwise.
An oil pan is placed directly under the drain and used to collect the old oil. This is discarded.
It might seem like an easy task, but this requires expertise to locate the drain plug and drain it without damaging it or yourself.
Step 3
The filter check is one step that must not be skipped. The whole purpose of the oil filter is defeated if they are dirty and clogged. It’s important to lubricate the seal of the new filter with some fresh oil before fitting it in.
Most times, it comes down to a choice between reusable filters and disposable filters. Either way, an unclogged filter should be the final result of this endeavor.
Step 4
This is the actual oil replacement. Go for experts in choosing the best type, grade, and brand of engine oil for your vehicle. This has a lot of impact on its overall performance. The oil pan will likely be replaced and then filled with some fresh oil. This is done with a funnel to catch any oil spills.
Step 5
After the oil is topped off, it’s only right that the oil level is checked to ensure it’s at the appropriate level. A simple dipstick test after the oil is allowed to settle will suffice.
What do you gain from fresh oil?
Prevents gunk from piling
Old oil often contains contaminants that can coat and clog your vehicle’s components. This can slow down or reduce performance significantly.
Your automobile continues to run smoothly
Breakdowns are no fun. You would find that unplanned visits to the repair shops can be stressful.
With fresh oil, you’ll get a seamless and enjoyable driving experience. Your vehicle will be more efficient and feel as good as new.
Reduces the likelihood of often complicated and extensive repairs
Engine oil that is free from contaminants provides the much-needed lubrication. This reduces the risk of dangerous overheating. This simple service may prevent a serious fire.
As surprising as it might be, major issues may arise from simply neglecting your engine oil. Simple routine maintenance can save headaches in the future.
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Saves money and time
Like fuel, oil is incredibly important to the engine. It may surprise you to know that the often-inexpensive oil change service will save you lots of dollars in engine repair or replacement.
If you use your vehicle for business, you will understand that time equals money. You should try to avoid downtime by accessing oil change service as at when due.
As with most machines, efficiency means that it puts up a good show with a lot less fuel consumption. This is great news for your wallet.
Prolongs your vehicle’s life
Like most car owners, you would love to get your money’s worth from your vehicle.
There’s only so much you can control when it comes to a car’s longevity. Oil change service is one of them.
Regular oil changes will reduce the frequency of breakdowns and preserve your vehicle for longer.
Oil change service may involve others that you’ll find useful
Unlike what you’d yourself in your home garage, professional oil change service is a lot more holistic.
You can use the opportunity to get other maintenance services that you would usually skip. Plus, you can sync this with changing your transmission fluid to keep your vehicle on track. You can adjust this to suit your schedule.
Contact us
Although you can choose to go do-it-yourself, an oil change is best handled by professionals. Hot motor oil can be quite a safety hazard.
Looking for professional oil change services? TLC Auto and Truck Repair Center offer this and lots more. We’re glad to do the dirty work so you don’t have to.
TLC has fully insured and ASE certified technicians that will expertly drain and change your engine oil. Our technicians have adopted the industry’s best practices over the years.
Just in case you’re worried about time-wasting, we are fast, fuss-free, and mess-free.