Owning a vehicle is very convenient, and can even be fun. It is also, however, quite a responsibility. You need to make sure that you keep up with the regular maintenance that needs to be done in order to keep it running smoothly. The most common type of maintenance that needs to be performed is an oil change.
The oil is what keeps the many moving parts within your engine properly lubricated. This is necessary for ensuring your vehicle doesn’t overheat, get damaged, or even seize up while driving. Fortunately, an oil change only takes a short amount of time and is very affordable, making it one of the simplest, yet most important, types of maintenance you can perform.
Why are Oil Changes Needed?
When running properly, a vehicle should not leak or burn off oil since it is contained within a closed system. Oil changes are not typically needed due to running out of oil, but rather because the oil wears out over time. As the oil is exposed to the extreme heat of the engine, and gets contaminated from use, it will become less effective. Regular oil changes will help to ensure your engine is properly lubricated and can move freely without causing damage.
How Often to Get an Oil Change?
In the past, the standard rule for getting an oil change was every 3 months or 3000 miles. That isn’t always the case, thanks to improvements in engine technology and oil quality. Some vehicles, for example, recommend you use fully synthetic oil, which can typically last for 6000 miles or more. In addition, if you drive a diesel vehicle and use the proper oil, you can go for even longer.
You will also want to consider the type of driving you do. If you primarily drive on the highway, you can wait a little longer between oil changes than if you mostly drive in the city. If you aren’t sure how frequently to get an oil change in your situation, talk with one of our mechanics at our service center to get advice.
Work with Our Service Center Today
If it’s been a while since you’ve had your vehicle’s oil changed, make sure to contact our service center to schedule an appointment. This task can typically be completed in under an hour, and you can wait in our comfortable lounge while it is done. While changing the oil, we’ll also look at a variety of other systems on your vehicle to help spot any problems before they cause a real issue. Also, be sure to check out our service specials to help you save on your next visit. If you have any additional questions, comments or concerns contact us at (919) 737-7638 .