Oil Changes 101: Everything You Need to Know About Changing your Car’s Oil
Oil Changes 101 by Tire Source
When it comes to car care, there is one thing that makes a big impact. That’s oil changes. In this post, we’ll cover the basics of when and why to change your car’s oil, the different types of car oil available, which oil is best for your vehicle and how long an oil change typically takes.
When to change the oil in a car?
Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining your engine’s health and prolonging its lifespan. But how often should you change your oil? The answer depends on several factors, including your vehicle’s make and model, driving conditions and the type of oil used. As always, it’s best to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s service recommendations. Generally, you should have your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Some newer vehicles may recommend up to 15,000 miles between oil changes depending on the oil used.
So, how do you know if your vehicle needs an oil change sooner than the recommended interval? Look out for these signs:
- Your engine is running louder than usual
- The oil is dirty and has a dark, murky appearance
- Your vehicle’s dashboard oil light is illuminated
- You notice a burning smell coming from your engine
- Your engine is performing sluggishly or lacks power
- Your oil level is low
To check your oil level, simply follow these steps:
- Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick.
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully.
- Pull out the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should fall between the “minimum” and “maximum” markings on the dipstick.
- For vehicles that do not have a dipstick, refer to you owner’s manual or stop in to Tire Source location to have the level checked
Types of car oil
Tire Source. We are not only knowledgeable about car oil but also carry more than 20 different types of oil. Explore the main categories of engine oil and their specific benefits for different types of vehicles:
#1. Semi-Synthetic Oil
Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of conventional and synthetic oil. Its thin viscosity means that it offers enhanced engine protection and better fuel efficiency.
#2. Full Synthetic Oil
Manufactured entirely from chemical compounds, full synthetic oil provides superior engine protection, reduces friction and lasts longer between oil changes. It is the oil of choice for many high-performance and luxury vehicles.
#3. Euro-Full Synthetic Oil
European cars often have stricter emission standards requiring specialized oils. Euro-full synthetic oil meets these rigorous requirements for optimal engine performance.
#4. Diesel Oil
Designed specifically for diesel vehicles, diesel oil offers better protection against engine wear, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced performance. Just like there are semi-synthetic and full synthetic oil for gasoline engines, there are similar sub-categories of diesel oil.
Which oil is best for a car?
You might be asking yourself “What is the cheapest oil I can get away with,” but when it comes to selecting the best oil for your car, it’s always safest to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Each vehicle is engineered with specific oil requirements to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
You can find information about your car oil in a number of places:
Owner’s manual for your car
Manufacturer’s website
Oil cap or dipstick
Tire Source professionals
By adhering to these recommendations, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re using the oil that your vehicle was designed to run on, preventing any potential issues down the road.
How long does an oil change typically take?
At Tire Source, we understand that convenience and efficiency are important for our customers. On average, an oil change typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. However, please keep in mind that this can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your vehicle’s engine and any additional services requested.
At our shop, we go the extra mile to ensure you receive comprehensive service with every oil change. For your peace of mind, we provide a full digital Smart Inspection, tire rotation to promote even wear, fluid top-off and air pressure check. Additionally, our team conducts a full 100-point inspection to identify any potential issues and keep your car running smoothly.