Oil changes are a crucial part of maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle.
A regular oil change can prevent damage to your engine, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure that your car runs smoothly. However, not all oil changes are created equal.
To ensure that your vehicle receives the best possible care, it’s essential to know what to look for during your next oil change.
Basic Car Maintenance Tips Everyone Should Know
Here are the top five options you should know about oil changes before visiting a mechanic.
1. Understanding the Different Types of Oil
Understanding the different types of oil is crucial when it comes to oil changes.
Different oils are designed to perform differently in various driving conditions and engine types. Conventional oil is the most common type and is suitable for most vehicles, while synthetic oil is designed to perform better in extreme weather conditions.
High mileage oil is for vehicles with over 75,000 miles and helps to prevent engine wear and tear. If you drive in hot temperatures, consider using synthetic blend oil, a mix of conventional and synthetic oil.
Each oil type has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to talk to your mechanic about which oil is best for your vehicle.
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should also indicate your engine’s recommended type of oil.
Always use the correct weight oil for your engine, which refers to its thickness, to ensure proper performance.
2. Know the Right Oil Weight
Knowing the right oil weight for your vehicle is essential to oil changes.
The oil weight refers to the thickness of the oil, and it’s essential to use the correct weight because different weights are designed to perform differently in different temperatures. Generally, oil weights are classified as 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30, and so on.
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should indicate the recommended oil weight for your engine. It’s essential to stick to the recommended weight because using the wrong weight can affect the performance and longevity of your engine.
For example, using a thicker oil weight in hot temperatures can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased engine wear, while using a thinner oil weight in cold temperatures can cause the oil to flow too quickly and not provide adequate lubrication.
Before your next oil change, know the proper oil weight for your vehicle and discuss it with your mechanic.
3. Check Your Oil Level Regularly
Checking your oil level regularly is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s health.
Doing so can help you determine if you need an oil change or if there is another problem with your vehicle. Checking your oil level is simple – wait until your engine is excellent, remove the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it back into the engine.
Check the dipstick to see if the oil level is between the “low” and “full” marks. If the oil level is low, it may indicate that you’re due for an oil change or a problem with your engine, such as a leak.
Regularly checking your oil level can help prevent engine damage and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Before your next oil change, check your oil level and discuss any concerns here.
4. Don’t Overlook the Oil Filter
Pay attention to the oil filter during your next oil change. The oil filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your engine.
It’s responsible for removing contaminants and debris from the oil as it circulates via the engine. Neglecting to replace the oil filter during an oil change can result in dirty oil flowing through your engine, which can cause increased wear and tear.
A clogged or dirty oil filter can also reduce fuel efficiency and affect the performance of your engine.
Before your next oil change, have your mechanic replace the oil filter. It’s recommended to replace the oil filter every time you change your oil to ensure that your engine receives clean, filtered oil.
Paying attention to the oil filter can help extend your engine’s life and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.
5. Synthetic Oil Changes
If you use synthetic oil in your vehicle, it’s important to note that synthetic oil changes are typically required less frequently than conventional oil changes.
However, the frequency of synthetic oil changes will still depend on various factors such as driving conditions, vehicle usage, and manufacturer recommendations.
Make sure to talk to your mechanic about the recommended frequency of synthetic oil changes for your vehicle.
Get Enough Knowledge Before Visiting a Mechanic
Whether you’re a car expert or not, it’s always good to know the basics for taking care of your vehicle.
After all, your car is one of your most significant investments. The next time you take your vehicle for an oil change, keep these five must-knows in mind.
And if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask your mechanic. They’ll be more than happy to help you out.