When Should You Change Your Oil & Filter?
Introduction
Not only is your car one of your most significant investments, but it’s also critical to daily life, getting you from one place in Raleigh, NC, to another without a fuss. If you want your car to keep running at optimal performance and last a long time, you need to know the basics of car maintenance. In this regard, changing the oil and oil filter is a significant task. It helps increase the longevity of your car engine and prevents having costly repairs in the future.
In this blog, Carfix, the auto repair experts in Raleigh, NC, will reveal the importance of regular oil change service and why changing your engine oil and filter is crucial. We’ll also provide other helpful information to help you get on top of your maintenance routine.
But before that, let us first understand:
What Does Oil Do for Your Car Engine?
Oil is a vital part of the car engine as it safeguards against excessive heat and friction that can damage moving parts. It also serves as a coolant, helping dissipate heat from the hotter engine components. In addition, oil lubricates all surfaces within the engine and prevents the creation of a destructive abrasion that could tear metal from metal.
Despite being used to lubricate moving parts, it is also essential that oil does not get into the combustion chamber, damaging internal engine components. In summary, oil ensures the smooth operation of internal engine components and protects your car engine from overheating and wear and tear.
What is an Oil Filter, and How Does it Work?
An oil filter is a cylindrical piece that contains a fine mesh to strain contaminants from the engine oil. The engine oil lubricates and helps in cooling the internal engine components. It collects the metal shavings and other contaminants that contact the engine through normal combustion. The oil filter then traps these contaminants and prevents them from finding their way into the internal engine components.
As your engine is subjected to high temperature and pressure during operation, a continuous supply of clean oil must be ensured to protect the engine from excessive heat and abrasion of moving parts.
The Importance of Regularly Changing Your Car Oil and Oil Filter:
People rarely pay much attention to engine oil change. Unless the Oil Change Soon warning pops up, it is usually ignored or forgotten.
This is a mistake that can have serious consequences. Neglecting the oil and oil filter change schedule as per your car’s manual can shorten the lifespan of your car engine and result in major repairs. Car manufacturers recommend oil change after every 3,000-5,000 miles.
When you have your oil and filter changed at the correct intervals, you will reduce the strain on the overall engine and prolong the oil pump’s life, motor mounts, and other driving components. The proper engine lubrication will also ensure fuel economy, reduce harmful emissions, and save the environment.
However, if you do not go for an engine oil change at the right time, your engine can become starved for lubrication. As a result, the oil will lose its ability to lubricate the engine’s moving parts, and normal wear will cause excessive heat, friction, and stress. If left alone, this can cause overheating of the engine, poor performance, and in the worst case, can damage engine components.
Note: Manufacturer recommendations, driving conditions, and driving styles all impact when you should change your oil. While there are standard recommendations, consult your expert at Carfix Auto Repair for the best oil change frequency for you and your vehicle.
How Do You Know Your Oil is Old and Dirty?
Dirty oil indicates that the engine may not be efficiently lubricated. It can create several other issues, such as damage to internal engine components, clogging of the oil filter, and sludge formation. You should ensure that your car mechanic checks this before getting your next oil change service done.
If you are experiencing any of the following problems, it’s time to consult your auto repair expert:
- Engine knocking or vibrating at idle or when you are driving
- Oil visible on the underside of the vehicle
- Poor acceleration or lack of power
- Check engine light
- The engine is leaking oil or burning oil
- Smokes coming out of the exhaust in heavy amounts when you accelerate
Routine oil changes can go a long way in protecting your engine from damage. Having your car regularly serviced at reliable auto mechanic shops near me will help avoid frequent problems with your car’s engine.
How to Check the Level of the Oil in Your Car
You can check the oil level yourself by opening up your car’s hood and locating your engine dipstick. Pull the dipstick out and examine the state of the oil. If it has a dark color and a thick consistency, the chances are that you need an oil change service. On the other hand, healthy oil is golden brown and light in color.
The marking on the oil dipstick also indicates how the oil is in the engine. If the oil is between min and max marks, your car engine has sufficient lubrication. But if it’s below the minimum mark, you should contact your auto repair expert immediately to prevent engine damage.
Final Takeaway:
Changing oil and filter regularly can help protect your car engine from damage. This will ensure that you get the maximum performance from your car for a long time to come.
Bringing your car to Carfix Auto Repair in Raleigh will ensure that you get the high-quality oil change service your car requires. We have been in the business of providing comprehensive car servicing for over 15 years, and our team of experienced mechanics is eager to serve you.
So call today and let us take care of your next oil change.
