Engine oil will provide lubrication to the moving parts inside the engine. It will also help to remove heat and suspend the dirt so that the oil filter can capture any dirt. Over time the oil will become degraded and there will be dirt in the oil. Regular oil changes will protect your engine, improve your fuel economy and prolong the life of the engine. The correct oil change intervals will depend on the vehicle, oil and driving style.
Manufacturers Guidelines
The best place to start will be your owners handbook. Many modern vehicles will have synthetic oil which may have longer oil change intervals. These can vary depending on the engine and model year. Some vehicles will have a system to tell you when you should change your oil depending on your driving conditions. Use these as a guideline but always adhere to the maximum oil change interval in your handbook.
Driving Conditions
If you have lots of short journeys, you may not be getting the engine to the correct operating temperature to evaporate the water and fuel contaminants. Stop start driving, long idle times, dusty roads, towing, heavy loads and extreme temperatures will all be seen as harsh driving conditions. If you are driving in Missouri and have lots of short journeys or are stuck in traffic you may need to change your oil more frequently. Refer to your handbook.
Driving on motorways with a constant speed may not be seen as harsh but it is best to follow the guidelines.
Types of Engine Oil
There are different types of oil available. Some older or less harsh applications may use conventional oil. Synthetic blend uses both conventional oil and synthetic oil. Many modern engines will require full synthetic oil which has been designed to have certain performance characteristics.
Don’t assume you need to use the more expensive oil. Check what viscosity and performance oil your manufacturer recommends. Using the incorrect oil could affect how well your car is protected, your emissions systems and warranty. Ensure your oil filter is suitable.
Indicators of needing an Oil Change
The most important indicator will be your maintenance light on the dash. Other indicators could be a sticker to remind you to change the oil, your service history showing it’s due, oil level is too low or looks dirty. The oil will often get quite black as it picks up by products from the combustion process.
If you can smell burning oil, you have a visible leak or you are getting a low oil pressure warning then you should take more notice. If you are getting a low oil pressure warning whilst driving you should safely pull over as soon as possible and seek assistance. Driving with low oil pressure can cause serious damage.
Oil Change Procedure
An Oil change will usually consist of draining the old oil, fitting a new oil filter and adding the correct amount and type of oil. Your technician will check the oil level and reset the maintenance light if applicable. Depending on the package you have selected, they may also check other fluids, belts, hoses, tyres and any visible leaks.
Ask what they will do during your service. They should recommend any work required based on the condition of your vehicle.
Keeping Records
Keep records of your invoices or digitally note down when you had your service, how many miles and the oil and oil filter specification. This will help you plan your next service and can help with resale. Check your oil using the dipstick or electronic oil level as outlined in your handbook. Especially if you are going on a long journey.
Simple Maintenance
If you are looking for oil change st charles mo service please bring your vehicle details (Make/Model/Year/Miles) and any messages on your dash. HI-TECH Automotive provide service in St. Peters and surrounding areas within St. Charles County. Our technicians can help you confirm what oil specification and interval would be best for your vehicle. It is better to follow a suitable schedule rather than change your oil too regularly or wait for warnings.
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