When Should You Get Your Oil changed?

Did you know that the most cost-effective way to keep your car in tip-top shape is to take care of regular oil changes?  But you may be wondering when should you get your oil changed?  Many auto mechanics have reported that they see vehicles with damaged or dirty engines because drivers didn’t know what oil to use or they waited too long between oil changes.  Paying for repairs to an engine damaged by dirty is far more expensive than paying for regular oil changes.  Especially if your auto repair shop provides oil change coupons for their customers.

Here are 5 facts every car owner should know about oil changes:

1. The purpose of oil.  Oil lubricates the parts of the engine so they don’t grind against each other and preventing the engine from overheating.  Also, as oil flows through the engine, it carries away dirt, dust, and other pollutants that would otherwise clog up the engine parts.
2. Oil change interval.  Read your owner’s manual so you know the right oil change interval required for your vehicle.  Depending on the age of your vehicle, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions, it could be anywhere between 3K miles for older vehicles using conventional oil up to 15K miles for newer vehicles using full-synthetic oil. 
3. Dashboard warning light.   Don’t delay to see the dashboard warning light before changing the oil. Some dashboard lights are programmed to come on automatically at 3,000-5,000 miles after the last oil change. In many cases, that light might not come on until the engine is already too low on oil. 
4. Temperature affects oil.  The Society of Automotive Engineers has developed designations for oil that indicate the viscosity of the oil.  Some are designed to be thinner when cold and more viscous when hot.  For example, 10W-30 oil—the "10W" corresponds to the lower viscosity when the engine is cold—the "30" refers to the higher viscosity when the engine is hot and running usually.  
5. Conventional, premium, and synthetic oils.  Premium oils with extra additives may be used for special driving wants, such as high-performance cars.  Synthetic or premium oil blended with conventional oil is often used for trucks and SUVs. Ask your auto mechanic and read your owner’s manual to know what is best for your vehicle.

Are you wondering when should you get your oil changed?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon about our oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Canby, OR, and surrounding areas.

How do you know if your Car needs Oil?

If you want to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape, it is essential that you follow the suggested oil change interval stated in your owner’s manual.  Fresh, clean oil optimizes your vehicle’s performance by lubricating parts and extending the life of your engine, so why do people put off a wanted oil change?  

How do you know if your car needs oil?  There are some factors that help determine when to get an oil change, such as mileage, quality of oil, the age of the car, and how the car is driven.  

Over time, oil breaks down and will lose its efficiency in doing its job.  Here are a few warning signs that your car wants an oil change:

1. Check engine or oil change light -- If the level of oil gets too low, either the oil change light or the check engine light will come on.  Inspect the dipstick and top off the oil if it’s not too low. If the oil is too low, the engine is at risk of damage due to a lack of lubrication.
2. Engine noise and knocking -- If your oil isn’t doing its job of lubricating, the engine noise will get louder and louder. Knocking sounds could indicate that there is excessive friction in the engine and may result in overheating and damage.
3. Dark, dirty oil -- Over time, oil becomes filled with particles collected from the engine and turns dark. Inspect your oil at least monthly.  You should see the dipstick through the oil.
4. Oil smell inside the car -- This may indicate an oil leak. If you also smell gas, the vehicle may be overheating. 
5. Exhaust smoke -- If smoke comes from the tailpipe, you may have faulty engine parts or an oil leak.
6. Excessive Mileage -- If you reliably travel a lot of miles, you may want oil changes sooner than the usual schedule. Inspect your owner’s manual for specific guidelines. 

Remember:  Having the right level and quality of oil will prevent excessive wear and tear on your engine, ultimately resulting in fewer repairs down the road.

Are you wondering how do you know if your car needs oil?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon today for more information about our oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Canby, OR and surrounding areas.