3 Things to Know About Oil Changes for Your Car

Each driver should be aware of the importance of an oil change for their vehicle’s engine. The liquid is essential for the healthy maintenance of the car and good functionality.

Why is an oil change so important? Over time, the oil in the engine essentially "expires" and makes the car run slowly. A regular oil change helps the engine reduce the risk of vehicle emission, which occurs because of the harmful chemicals. The proper lubrication of your car lessens the amount of heat that the engine produces. A regular car oil change will maintain the efficient functionality of the engine.

Here are the three essential points that you should know about car oil changes:

1. Frequency of oil change

2. Signs to change the oil

3. Recycling the old oil

A mobile oil change service will make your life much easier if you keep putting off going to the mechanics for an oil change. Technicians will arrive at your destination and change the oil of your engine quickly and efficiently, saving you time in the process.

Frequency of Oil Change

First of all, it is essential to read the car manual for valuable insight into how your car functions and what it needs. Generally, an oil change should be done every three to six months or every 3000-5000 miles. New cars do not require oil change as often as the old ones.

Now, some new cars may provide an opportunity to have an oil-life monitoring system. The electronic sensors are suitable because they send information to the car computer about changing the oil. The oil technician resets the oil-life monitoring system when the oil change is done.

A car oil change is a must at least twice a year. Oil loses its quality and functionality as time passes. Oil replacement keeps the car lubricated and prevents dirt, moisture, and other harmful chemicals from corroding the car. Some people think that if they drive their car less, it would not be necessary to change the oil regularly. However, it is more dangerous because when you drive your car less, it does not warm the engine enough, which is necessary for evaporating the moisture of the car.

Along with the points mentioned above, it is necessary to check the car’s oil level once a month to check that the oil level is not low or dirty. Also, you should choose the right type of oil for your car. It is better to consider the oil recommendation given by the vehicle manufacturer.

Signs to Change the Oil

As mentioned above, you should follow the approximate guidelines to change the oil of your car frequently. Besides the frequency, there are other signs that will help you understand that it's time to change the oil. Here are some crucial points for you to consider:

• Engine noise

Oil makes the engine run smoothly, and when the car becomes less lubricated, it starts to make noises such as knocking or ticking.

• Oil smell

If there is an oil smell in your car, it means that it is leaking or your car is overheating. The cause may be the fact that the oil is old or the level is low.

• Dirty oil

Oil degrades over time and collects contaminants of dust and dirt, turning into a sludge. Once a month, it is necessary to remove the dipstick and check both the level and cleanliness of the oil.

• Smoke from the exhaust

The smoke in the car can come out because of overheating. When oil leaks, it flows into hot engine parts which cause smoke from the exhaust.

Recycling the Old Oil

When you remove the old oil and replace it with a new one, keep in mind that you can recycle it. Motor oil degrades over time but it is not completely damaged. Thus, you should not throw away the old oil. Putting the oil in a sealed container, you can take it to a used oil collection facility to recycle the oil, making it clean again. And the old oil can be used as a new one, or for industrial heating.

An oil change is the key to the healthy functioning of your car.

Jack Bartner is a content writer at Kambio Mobile Auto Services. He is writing informative automotive blogs. You can read more of his blogs at Kambio.