Oil Change Services: What You Need To Know
Every driver should prioritize the maintenance of their car. Not only does it allow you to enjoy the luxury that comes with your vehicle, but it also gives you the confidence to feel safe while driving.
Oil changes are a crucial part of car maintenance that should not be disregarded. Whether you are a seasoned or novice car owner, understanding the importance of oil changes will allow you to make informed decisions regarding your vehicle’s health.
Whether you need an oil change service or more, we exclusively hire ASE-certified technicians specializing in European vehicles so your car gets the premium care it deserves.
The Need For a Regular Oil Change Service (what happens if you skip it)
In one sentence, engine oil is why your engine hasn’t folded up due to friction, and when you skip oiling, you risk your engine’s health.
The engine consists of metallic components that generate friction and heat. Oiling your engine reduces that friction, allowing it to run more smoothly. The oil also absorbs the engine’s heat, securely transporting it away from critical components to where it can be adequately absorbed.
Proper oiling generally reduces the engine’s temperature, prevents it from overheating, and keeps the gears rolling without friction.
Failing to replace your car’s oil regularly puts unwarranted strain on the engine, which can cause engine damage.
So, What Happens During a Professional Oil Change Service?
Depending on the car brand, you should take your car for a regular oil change service every six months. But if you think you can DIY the situation, think again. When going to a professional for an oil change service, these are the processes that the expert would take.
- Preparation: The technician would begin by cooling off the car. Usually, before an oil change, the oil must cool down to avoid any burns or other hazards during the process. So the technician can proceed to the next step when the car has cooled for a bit.
- Vehicle inspection: Here, the technician will check if your car’s engine is safe to work on (with no leaks or other pressing issues).
- Raise the car: Next, using a ramp, your car will be raised so that the technician can easily see its chassis. This position also makes it easy for the mechanic to assess the parts of your car that are not always visible.
- Draining old oil: Next, a catch pan will be placed under the drain plug, and the mechanic will remove it using a tool. The technician will then empty the old oil into the catch pan, ensuring that all contaminants are removed.
- Removing the oil filter: The old oil filter will also be removed to ensure all contaminants in the old oil are entirely removed and not transferred to the new oil.
- Preparing the new filter: A small amount of oil is applied to the new filter’s rubber gasket to ensure a solid seal and to make removal easier during the following oil change.
- Installing a fresh filter: The new filter is securely fastened but not extremely tight. Note that a filter that’s too tight or too loose can result in an oil leak after an oil change. That’s why it is best to visit only a professional to ensure no problems are sustained after the service.
- Installing the drain plug: The drain plug will now be secured.
- Add fresh oil: To avoid spills, the mechanic removes the oil fill cap and adds new oil with a funnel. The recommended oil type differs from car to car, so the mechanics usually check your car’s manufacturer’s specifications for the type and amount of oil to be used.
- Checking the oil level: The technician will then use a dipstick to satisfy the manufacturer’s criteria.
Even though all of these steps appear simple, you should not change your vehicle’s oil yourself. Instead, drive down to a professional to handle this because they are more experienced and will do it perfectly without error.
