How Many Miles Should You Get an Oil Change?

Experienced auto drivers already know that the most cost-effective maintenance item to keep your vehicle in the best shape is to schedule regular oil changes. Though, many auto mechanics report that they have vehicles brought in for repair because of engine damage caused by dirty oil.  Either the drivers didn’t know what oil to use or they simply delayed too long between oil changes. They then discover that the cost of an engine repair is far more than an oil change service.

Here are several things every driver 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 creating excess friction and heat.  Oil also carries away dirt, dust, and other contaminants as it flows through the engine.
2. The oil change interval.  The right oil change interval required for your vehicle will vary depending on its age, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions. Be sure to read your owner’s manual or ask your auto mechanic for advice.  The right interval could be anywhere between 3,000 miles for older vehicles using conventional oil up to 15,000 miles for new vehicles using full-synthetic oil. 
3. Warning light.   Drivers should not rely on the dashboard warning light before changing the oil as many are programmed to come on around 3,000 to 5,000 miles after the last oil change. The engine may already be low on oil before that light comes on.
4. Temperature affects oil.  Designations indicating the viscosity of oil have been developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers.  Some oils 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 generally.  
5. Conventional, premium, and synthetic oils. Normally, high-performance engines require synthetic oil, while the “average” engine uses conventional oils.  Blends combining synthetic, premium, or conventional oils are normally used for trucks and SUVs. 

Tip to Remember:  Read your owner’s manual to find out what is the best oil change for your car. Or ask your auto mechanic for recommendations on what is best for your vehicle.

Do you want to know more about how many miles should you get an oil change?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for information about their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Happens If You Neglect Regular Oil Changes?

New and inexperienced vehicle owners may not understand what happens if they neglect regular oil changes.  Experienced car owners may have experienced first-hand what kind of damage can take place in the engine if the oil is not changed on a regular basis.

In case you are confused about the exact oil change interval for your vehicle, and the type of oil to use, read your owner’s manual.  This is the guideline suggested by the manufacturer to ensure that your vehicle will keep running strong for lots of miles.

There are some benefits for keeping up with regular oil changes:

• Extends your engine’s longevity
• Optimizes your vehicle’s performance
• Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
• Keeps engine parts lubricated
• Prevents engine overheating

So what happens if you neglect regular oil changes?  With use and time, oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness. It’s time for an oil change if you see any of the warning signs below:

1. Dark and dirty oil.
2. Noisy engine because of lack of lubrication
3. Oil change warning light comes on.
4. Smoke coming from the muffler.
5. Oil smell inside the car, combined with gas or exhaust fumes.

Even though oil changes are relatively quick and cheap, because of schedules and budgets, it is easy for people to put off the needed oil change.  Because auto repair technicians really do want their customers to be driving safe vehicles, lots of auto shops offer oil change coupons to make this service more affordable.  Ask your auto mechanic or go to your auto shop’s website and find their oil change coupons. 

Are you wondering what happens if you neglect regular oil changes? Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

Wondering how Often Do You Really Need To Change The Oil?

New and inexperienced car owners may be asking this question of their mechanic.  For those of you who have owned a vehicle for very long have possibly heard it said many times--read your owner’s manual to know what kind of oil change and mileage interval the manufacturer recommends for your car!  This is still sound advice for all drivers.

There are some good reasons why it is compulsory to change engine oil.  Consider the benefits listed below:

• Extends your engine’s longevity
• Optimizes your vehicle’s performance
• Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
• Keeps engine parts lubricated
• Prevents engine overheating

So how often do you really need to change the oil?  Over time, oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness.  Many auto mechanics still rely on the advice of changing the oil every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first.  With today’s advancements in the types of motor oil available as well as advanced engine technology, this mileage interval may now be as much as every 15,000 miles.

Though, depending on your driving habits and situations, you may not be able to rely on the mileage interval.  If your car starts to exhibit one or more of the warning signs below, it’s time for an oil change!

1. Dark and dirty oil.
2. Noisy engine because of lack of lubrication
3. Oil change warning light comes on. 
4. Smoke coming from the muffler. 
5. Oil smell inside the car, combined with gas or exhaust fumes. 

Even though oil changes are relatively simple and inexpensive, many car owners neglect this service because of busy schedules and budget considerations.  Though, many auto shops offer oil change coupons for their customers to help make this service more affordable.  Be sure to ask your mechanic, or go online to your shop’s website and find their oil change coupons.

Are you wondering how often do you really need to change the oil?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.