If you're a driver, your vehicle will need an oil change eventually. Here are some basics associated with this particularly common type of automotive maintenance.
When it comes to taking care of a vehicle,
you don't want to overlook the importance of an oil change. It doesn't take much time, it doesn't cost very much money, but it can make a huge difference in the way that your vehicle performs. Don't take for granted what this type of maintenance can do for your car.
What Happens?
When you take your vehicle in for an oil change, a regularly scheduled type of maintenance is performed. A technician puts your vehicle on a lift. He or she removes a plug and the old fluids are drained. The technician inspects that fluid as it comes out for color and consistency as well as the amount that is removed. If one of these doesn't seem right, it may be evidence that something is wrong and a more complete inspection is required.
Following this, fresh lubricant is placed inside the engine. As it goes in, once again, the technician is looking for any signs of problems. He or she will check to make sure that none is leaking out and that the right amount of liquid is taken into the engine. Now the basic maintenance is complete.
At this time, the technician may also take the time to complete an overall inspection of the vehicle and see if there are any noticeable problems without needing to remove any of the internal parts. Sometimes, customers may want to include a tire rotation or request that the air filter be replaced. While each of these has an added cost, they are also an important part of vehicle maintenance.
Why You Need It?
An oil change exchanges the fluids that are used to lubricate the engine. Over time, this liquid can evaporate or loose its consistency. When it does, the engine doesn't have all that it needs to run smoothly and problems can occur. In fact, neglecting an oil change over and over again can cause an engine to stop working completely.
While there is an upfront cost, compared to the alternative price tag of an engine replacement, it isn't much. Also, the car will perform as the manufacturer intended. Every part of the vehicle runs better when the manufacturer's directions are followed.
When Should You Go?
Different manufacturers recommend different time intervals (miles or days) for certain maintenance. In fact, some car maintenance facilities have their own recommended intervals. While it may be tempting to overlook one or two or try to stretch out the time or miles in between, you are always better off to have less time and miles in between maintenance. Many shops offer a sticker that goes in the top left-hand corner of your windshield to let you know when the next one is due. This is helpful, because even if you are mildly desensitized to its presence in your everyday driving, you will at some point remember that it's there and make a note to take your vehicle in for proper maintenance.
Where Should You Go?
You want to get an oil change at a local facility that you can trust. If they offer a short wait time or transportation to your home or office, this can make things easier for you. When you find a shop or technician that you like, stick with them.
