When Should Car Engine Oil Be Changed?

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates moving parts, helps to cool the engine, and prevents the formation of sludge and deposits. Over time, however, motor oil can become contaminated with dirt, metal shavings, and other particles. This can reduce its effectiveness and lead to engine damage.

That’s why it’s important to change your car’s engine oil regularly. But how often should you change it? The answer depends on a number of factors, including:

• The type of oil you use
• The age and mileage of your car
• Your driving habits

The Type of Oil You Use

There are two main types of motor oil: conventional oil and synthetic oil. Conventional oil is made from petroleum, while synthetic oil is made from man-made chemicals. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, but it lasts longer and provides better protection for your engine.

Conventional oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil can last up to 7,500 to 10,000 miles.

The Age and Mileage of Your Car

As your car gets older, it’s more important to change the oil more frequently. This is because older engines are more likely to develop leaks and other problems that can contaminate the oil.

You should also change the oil more frequently if you drive a lot of miles. This is because the oil will break down more quickly if it’s exposed to high temperatures and friction.

Your Driving Habits

If you drive in a lot of stop-and-go traffic or if you frequently tow heavy loads, you should change the oil more frequently. This is because these driving conditions put more stress on the engine and the oil.

How to Check Your Oil

You should check your oil level regularly, especially before taking a long trip. To check the oil level:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.
4. Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again.
5. The oil level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.

How to Change Your Oil

Changing your oil is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself. Here are the steps:

1. Gather your materials. You will need:
• New motor oil
• New oil filter
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench
• Funnel
2. Park your car on a level surface.
3. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
4. Place the oil drain pan under the oil pan.
5. Use the wrench to loosen the oil drain plug and allow the oil to drain out.
6. Once the oil has drained out, replace the oil drain plug.
7. Locate the oil filter and use the wrench to loosen it.
8. Remove the old oil filter and replace it with the new one.
9. Tighten the oil filter by hand.
10. Add the new motor oil to the engine. Use the funnel to avoid spilling the oil.
11. Check the oil level using the dipstick.
12. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
13. Check for leaks and tighten any loose bolts or connections.

Conclusion

Changing your car’s engine oil is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. By following the tips in this article, you can help keep your engine running smoothly for many years to come.