Yearly maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running optimally. Taking care of small things like tire alignment, oil change, or smog checks is beneficial to the long-term health of your car, truck, or SUV.
While it is much easier to turn to qualified mechanics for help, there are some things you can take of yourself. Saving money is essential for many consumers, as inflation and rising prices continue to strain millions of Americans. Having some basic knowledge can help your vehicle last longer.
Today, we will talk about how to perform an oil change. We will explain what role oil plays in your vehicle, state how often you should complete the service, and finish with a detailed description of the process. Let’s get started!
Like any other component of an engine, motor oil plays a significant role in ensuring vehicle health. Its primary function is lubrication, releasing heat caused by friction and combustion. Oil also assists in keeping the engine clean as microscopic deposits build up in the engine. The liquid flows into the oil filter and traps these deposits.
Engine oil ensures protection from corrosion. Fuel combustion generates corrosive acid and damages metal parts in the engine. Motor oil slows this process and seals the pistons and cylinders, forming a protective layer.
Long-term benefits include but are not limited to longer engine lifespan, proper functioning, and decreased fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
You should be changing oil every 7,500 - 10,000 miles. Manufacturers previously suggested changing it every 3,000 miles, but modern cars can run without a change for longer due to technological advancements. The best way to know how often to change your oil is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Certain driving conditions affect how often the oil needs to be changed. It needs to be changed more frequently if you go off-road or do any racing or heavy towing. In such a case, it’s better to visit a mechanic and determine how often you should go with the process.
Before performing an oil change, ensure you have clear access. Whenever possible, you should jack up the vehicle or drive it onto steel ramps and put a wheel block behind one rear tire. It’s also advisable to start the engine and let it warm up for 2-3 minutes, as this helps the oil heat up and allows it to drain more easily.
Before performing the service, you’ll need to acquire or prepare the following materials:
When you finish with preparations, you must do the following to change the oil:
Changing engine oil doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated. But it is something you’ll need to do from time to time. After reading this article, you’ll have the know-how to DIY your oil change, saving you some hard-earned cash in the process.
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© 2022 J.D.Power. All rights reserved.
© 2019 J.D.Power. All rights reserved.