A lot of questions come up about engine oil changes as this is the most common thing everyone encounters regarding vehicle maintenance. So, we sat down with our experienced mechanics at Franklynn Automotive, to answer the most common questions regarding engine oil.
5 Questions Everyone Asks About Oil Changes
1. Why is oil beneficial to my vehicle?
Vehicles are made of many parts that work together to bring about motion. In doing so, friction is created between them, which creates heat, which impacts the engine and other parts over time. Friction and heat eventually decrease the engine’s efficiency and lifespan.
To prevent this, oil is used to help prevent friction and overheating. That is why keeping up with your regular oil changes is so critical. The oil keeps your engine running smoothly.
2. Is there one type of engine oil?
No, there are actually a few different types of engine oils, including conventional, full synthetic, synthetic blends, and high mileage. Vehicle manufacturers will mention the preferred oil in your vehicle’s manual, so we recommend using that kind of oil as it best suits the engine. If you are unable to locate the manual, you can visit us at Franklynn Automotive and have our team advise you on which type of oil to use.
3. How often should I change the oil?
Your engines oil’s lifespan depends on various factors like how old your vehicle is, how much you drive, how many miles you have on your engine, the make and model, and the climate of the area you live in.
Generally, you should change your vehicle’s oil approximately every 5,000 miles. But some modern vehicles can go for 10,000+ miles without oil changes and without causing any issues. If you’re unsure if you are due for an oil change, give us a call and we’ll let you know!
4. What does an oil filter do? And why does it need to be replaced?
To prevent damage to the engine and ensure it is performing at its best, the engine oil must be clean and free of impediments and an oil filter assists with keeping the oil clean. Oil filters remove different kinds of particles from the oil that can be detrimental to your engine’s efficiency and lifespan.
For the best performance, we recommend changing the oil filter at every oil change.
5. What type of oil filter should I use in my vehicle?
There are generally two types of oil filters. One is the small canister that you can easily install and remove, while the other has a complex and intricate cleaning mechanism and is separately installed in the filter housing cap. To find which one is present in your vehicle, check your vehicle’s manual or stop by our shop, where we will let you know which type your vehicle utilizes.
We hope this answered your questions about engine oil and oil changes. In case you have any additional questions, or your vehicle is due for an oil change, give us a call and we’d be happy to help!
