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.

How to save money on Oil Changes for your vehicle in Canby, OR?

Car Maintenance is extremely important, but it all starts with the most vital service of scheduling regular oil changes for your car. Although oil changes are not too costly, there may be a few things you didn’t know about how to save money on oil changes.  Every penny saved can make a huge difference in your budget.

For starters, learning how to save money on oil changes is really very simple. The lifetime of an automobile can be extended but only if proper vehicle maintenance is performed on a regular basis. If important recommended car maintenance is neglected, of course you will find that the life of your car will be shortened.  Not surprisingly, motor oils break down and become dirty over time. So therefore, one of the easiest and most low-cost ways to save the huge expense of a possible engine repair or replacement is to spend a little upfront with oil changes at the appropriate times.

Here’s two tips to help you save money on oil changes: 

Get an oil change as recommended: The First and Important thing you should know about saving money on oil changes is that intervals for getting an oil change may vary from 7500 – 10000 miles, not typically the 3000 miles that most oil change shops put on your dash window sticker.  You’ll want to make sure you check your vehicles manual for what is recommended.  By doing this you could save money by not getting an oil change more often then you need it.

Look for value in Oil changes coupons:  Many shops may offer quality oil changes at a discount.  Perhaps a quick glance for oil changes coupons in the local newspaper, or search online and you could find savings.  We’ve found that by doing this, you can save 30%, 40% even 50% OFF on your next oil change.  In fact, we found that Auto repair shops in Canby, Oregon even offer Online Oil change coupons that you can use or text to your mobile phone so you save on oil changes too.

Now remember, don’t skip too far ahead you will not want to avoid your recommended oil changes if it is recommended.  That will lead to even bigger expenses down the road.  It may be necessary to get a consultation, why not reach out to the ASE-Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon today for more information about oil changes. They even let you schedule an appointment online for a Quality Oil Change.  Don’t forget, check out their specials page too if you want to some money on oil changes.