5 Things to Know About Oil Changes

Understanding Oil Changes

As cars, SUVs and pickup trucks become more high-tech and sophisticated, the motor oil that is used in their engines remains the same and continues to be the most important fluid in your vehicle. Caring for your vehicle’s engine oil is an important and vital part of vehicle maintenance and something you won’t want to overlook. If you don’t understand how oil works or why you need to have it changed, you’re in the right place as you’ll find the following information to be quite valuable. Keep reading to learn more about the five things you need to know about oil changes, so you can understand why you need them and how they help your vehicle’s engine last longer and keep delivering at its peak performance.

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1. When Should You Change Your Engine Oil? Your vehicle’s engine oil needs to be changed when it’s old or wearing down in order to continue to offer its protective qualities. Over time and use, oil degrades and can begin to collect harmful particles that need to be removed from the engine before they cause any damage. View your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine when you should change the oil. A rule of thumb is to change your engine oil at least twice a year.
2. How Often Should You Check the Level of Your Engine Oil? Most mechanics and automotive maintenance technicians suggest that you check your oil level at least once every month to determine if you need to add more oil or if you need to schedule an oil change.
3. How Often Should You Change Your Engine Oil? With advances in engine technology and oil production, oil change intervals are now longer than they used to be. The best source for determining your specific vehicle’s oil change interval can be found in its owner’s manual. Many new vehicles can now drive much further and for much longer between intervals, so be sure to check your owner’s manual.
4. What Type of Engine Oil Should You Use? This answer can be very different depending more on what type of engine you have, what type of vehicle you drive and what kind of weather you drive in. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the best place to find the information you need to determine what type of oil is needed for your vehicle.
5. Does Your Engine Need Synthetic Oil? While there are many benefits to using synthetic engine oil, your vehicle may not necessarily need it and may not be worth the extra money when comparing it to the cost of a conventional oil change. Many mechanics will tell you not to use synthetic oil unless the vehicle’s manufacturer calls for it because it can cost up to four times more than conventional engine oil.

If your vehicle’s engine is in need of an oil change, please consider visiting Southside Dodge in Red Deer, AB to let our professional service and maintenance team give your vehicle the fresh oil it needs to perform.

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