When’s the last time you changed the oil in your vehicle?
You probably know that oil changes are important for the health of your vehicle. But do you know how often you should be changing your oil? Or how to tell when your oil needs to be changed?
In this ultimate oil change guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about changing the oil in your vehicle. If you’ve ever wondered why oil changes are so important or how to perform an oil change yourself, read on.
Why are oil changes so important?
Oil is the lifeblood of your car. It lubricates all the mechanical components of your vehicle and keeps your engine running smoothly. If your oil is too low, it can lead to a decrease in your engine life.
Oil changes are important for improving the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Your oil may become contaminated with debris over time. If you don’t change your oil regularly, this old, contaminated oil might cause performance issues such as overheating and shorten the lifespan of your car.
If you know the importance of getting your oil changed but don’t want to do it yourself, head to your nearest Valvoline Oil Change. They’ll perform a stay-in-your-car oil change in about 15 minutes. You’ll enjoy all the benefits of an oil change, with none of the hassle.
With this lucrative Valvoline Oil change coupon, you can save up to 20% on additional services.
How often should you change your oil?
All car manufacturers provide recommendations on how often the oil of your vehicle should be changed. To learn more, check your owner’s manual. Most times the manufacturer’s recommendations are already conservative, but you should always err on the side of caution and aim for the lower number.
In general, it’s a good rule of thumb to get your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and even more if you drive in severe weather conditions.
If you notice that your oil is low before your next oil change, be sure to change your oil instead of just topping it up. You never want to add clean oil to dirt or contaminated oil.
Even if you never hit the recommended amount of mileage, it’s always a good idea to have your oil changed at least twice a year.
How long will an oil change take?
Most oil changes can be performed rather quickly. It usually takes only 30 – 90 minutes depending on your vehicle. Some oil change experts like Valvoline Oil Change can change your oil in as little as 15 minutes. Generally, you should plan for your oil change to take at least 1 hour.
What kind of oil should I use?
Many drivers think that all engine oil is the same but that is not the case! A quick glance at any automotive parts store will reveal just how many types of oil are available. Each type of oil contains particular additives that are designed to benefit different vehicles.
There are many things that should be considered when choosing oil for your car. Mileage, performance, and the season should all be determining factors. If you are unsure where to start, ask a qualified technician. They will be able to answer any questions that you may have.
What happens if I wait too long?
If you wait too long to change your oil, it could spell big problems for your vehicle. If you wait too long, your engine’s oil deteriorates and simply turns to sludge. This results in your engine having to work overtime and potentially decreasing the lifespan of your vehicle.