Curious about oil changes? How to do one? How they work? Then check out this ultimate guide to learn everything you need to know!
Oil change services is a $7.5 billion industry in the United States alone. Unless you have an electric vehicle, getting routine oil changes is a necessity. Neglecting this essential service can drastically reduce your vehicle’s lifespan.
Unless you have some experience working on cars, oil changes can be daunting. How often should you change your oil, where do you get it changed, and what type of oil do you use?
Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of getting an oil change.
What Is Oil, and Why Do You Need to Change It?
Motor oil serves three main purposes:
- Lubricates engine components
- Prevents wear on moving parts
- Absorbs heat to keep parts cool
Over time, oil gets contaminated with dirt and debris. This contamination affects your oil’s ability to keep your engine running smoothly. Getting regular oil changes prevents your oil from turning into sludge, which can cause engine failure.
How Often Should You Get Oil Changes?
You’ve probably heard several different (and sometimes conflicting) answers to this question. Some people never go over 3,000 miles, while others simply get an oil change every three months. The truth is it depends on your vehicle.
Checking your car’s manual will give you the best idea of how often you should change your oil. With technological advances, many modern cars can easily go 7,500 miles without an oil change. Older cars or cars with high mileage may require more frequent changes.
Where Should You Go to Get Your Oil Changed?
If you bought your car at a dealership, they probably encouraged you to use them for your vehicle maintenance and repairs. However, getting your oil changed at a dealership rather than an auto repair shop can cost you time and money.
Dealerships often overcharge for their services, including services as simple as an oil change. Additionally, it can be difficult to get an appointment, while auto repair shops can usually start working on your vehicle immediately. So how do you choose an auto shop?
There are several indicators of a high-quality auto shop you should look for:
ASE Certified Auto Technicians
Automotive Service Excellence Certified technicians must pass rigorous exams on the most recent techniques and technology in automotive repair. ASE certifications must also be renewed every five years. If a shop uses ASE Certified technicians, you can trust that an expert is working on your vehicle.
AAA Approved Auto Repair Shops
AAA has chosen fewer than 4% of auto shops in the US to be approved service shops. To remain AAA approved, auto shops undergo regular inspections by AAA to ensure the shop meets their high standards
Warranty Programs
Few things are as frustrating as getting your vehicle out of the shop only to have the problem start right back up. Shops with a warranty program are more likely to provide high-quality service they stand by.
Get Your Oil Changed by a Shop You Can Trust
Don’t get overcharged for oil changes or risk faulty service. Make an appointment with Express Auto Service today!