Proper Oil Changes by Proper Professionals

One of the most important things you can do for your car is to have the oil changed. Engine oil coats and protects the inner surfaces of the moving engine parts and helps to keep them cool and clean. Although your car has a cooling system to keep the car from overheating, the additional cooling of the engine oil helps to keep the parts from overheating and suffering from excessive friction so that they will last longer. You will be able to save money on car repairs by having your mechanic to perform regular oil changes for you. ASE master mechanics can perform this and other general car maintenance tasks for you with the greatest amount of professionalism and skill. 

All the Types of Oil

When you walk into an auto parts store, you will see a number of different brands, types, and weights of oil from which to choose. Your mechanic will know which oil is best to use for your car and the region in which you live. You will find three types of engine oil on the market: conventional, synthetic, and blended. Conventional oil is produced naturally in the earth while the synthetic is produced in a laboratory. Blended oils are a combination of both conventional and synthetic oils. The synthetic and blended oils were created in part to extend the length of time between oil changes. The weight of the oil refers to its thickness, or how quickly the oil flows between the moving engine parts. The grade is the alphanumerical notation of the weight. Oil can be single-grade or multi-grade, which means that the oil can have a single level of viscosity or a multiple levels of viscosity. Your owner’s manual will tell you which oil is in your car.

Frequency of Oil Changes

Car owners over the years had faithfully clung to the adage of changing the oil every 3,000 miles and once before the winter set in. With the advent of synthetic and blended oils, you will have more time between oil changes than you would if you used a conventional oil. Some oils tout that you can go over 30,000 miles between oil changes. When your mechanic checks your oil, they will be able to tell you when it is time for your oil to be changed. They will denote your service dates in your file and keep you on track with all of your general car maintenance tasks. 

Oil in Winter

Because engine oil offers lubrication and protection for the sensitive inner moving parts of the engine, it is very important that you monitor its condition, especially in the winter. Your mechanic will use the oil that is appropriate for the climate in your area. If you live in an area that gets very cold in the winter, you should make sure your mechanic checks your oil before winter fully sets in. The oil not only lubricates and protects the engine; it also helps to keep it clean and to keep it from overheating. When you notice that the oil has become darker and thicker, it may be getting close to the time for an oil change. When you have your oil changed, your mechanic may also perform other maintenance tasks, such as fluid checks, tire pressure checks, or a bumper-to-bumper inspection. Checking your oil will keep you on the road and is a powerful weapon in your winter safety arsenal for your car.