Oil changes are probably the most common type of car maintenance. Your vehicle needs frequent oil changes to function optimally. But, what do you know about them? Below you will find the top five questions to ask your Logan area mechanic about oil changes.
How do I know it’s time for an oil change?
Knowing it’s time for an oil change is essential. If your vehicle’s oil is not changed on time it can cause problems with your engine. Your Logan area mechanic can tell you the best ways to know it’s time for an oil change.
They will likely tell you to look for the following signs:
- Your vehicle needs an oil change every 5,000-15,000 miles depending on its make and model. Your mechanic will be able to give you a better mileage estimate for your specific vehicle.
- The oil change light comes on—if your vehicle has one.
- Your exhaust smoke is blue.
- The oil level is low when you check the dipstick. The oil may also look dark and thick.
- Your engine knocks or ticks.
What type of oil does my vehicle need?
Your Logan area mechanic will be able to tell you what type of oil your vehicle uses. There are four main types of engine oil. They are fully synthetic, synthetic blend, conventional, and high mileage. Full synthetic motor oil is quite expensive, but it is perfect for vehicles in extreme climates. Synthetic blend motor oil is less expensive than full synthetic oil, but you still receive most of the benefits. Conventional motor oil is still the most commonly used type. High mileage oil is specifically made for high mileage vehicles. If your car has over 75,000 miles on it, it could use high mileage oil.
Engine oil can also come with a variety of additives. The type of oil and additives you need can be explained by your mechanic.
What do you do with the used oil?
Used engine oil is toxic to the environment. Oil is a big contamination to drinking water. It is important to dispose of it properly. If your oil is changed by a mechanic, they will recycle your used oil. If you change your oil, it should be dropped off at a certified collection center.
If you have any questions about how your used oil is disposed of, ask your Logan area mechanic.
What happens if I wait too long for an oil change?
Don’t worry, if you are a little past your oil change recommendation, your vehicle will not explode. But, the old and dirty oil can cause problems if left unchanged for too long.
Engine oil acts as a lubricant. It becomes dirtier and less efficient as it ages. Additionally, old engine oil burns off faster than new oil. Thus, you will be going through a lot more oil as it ages. You do not want to drive your vehicle with low or no oil. That can ruin your engine.
Is topping off oil as good as an oil change?
No. Topping off oil can ensure your vehicle has enough to get to the mechanic. However, it is not a good idea to do this regularly. Topping off does not remove the oil and dirty oil. Therefore, it is still there potentially causing problems.
It is always best to bring your vehicle to a Logan area mechanic like Ethan’s Honest Automotive for your oil change.
