Is Your Vehicle Ready for an Oil Change? Do Not Wait
Do you know the importance of oil changes for your vehicle? Many vehicle owners know oil changes are part of regular auto maintenance, but may not know why it’s so important. This month, we’re going to explain the importance of oil changes and why you should keep up with regular auto maintenance.
Like all maintenance, be sure to read your owner’s manual for the best results. This will let you know when to get an oil change and other maintenance, along with the type of oil to use.
Oil Changes Can Increase Vehicle Performance
One important reason to get oil changes regularly is to increase vehicle performance. As CheckEngine.com reminds vehicle owners, oil lubricates moving parts. When the oils gets low or dirty, it can, in turn, affect these moving parts. Old oil can also build up in the engine, causing problems for your vehicle.
Oil is vital to your vehicle. Without oil, the engine cannot continue working and the vehicle will not run. As Cars Direct mentions, running out of oil and then driving the vehicle can and will ruin the engine. Instead of causing irreversible damage, make sure to have your oil changed at the recommended mileage. Bass Transmissions in Roanoke, VA, can provide oil changes and other necessary auto maintenance.
Signs That It’s Time to Change Your Oil
If you’re unsure of the best time to change your oil, there are some tell-tale signs. These can include:
- Reaching 3,000, 5,000, or 7,500 miles, whichever your owner’s manual recommends
- The oil level is low
- Oil leaks
- Louder engine
- More exhaust
- Poor gas mileage
- Odd oil texture
Have you noticed any of these signs in your vehicle? Make an appointment for an oil change right away. This will ensure that your vehicle doesn’t suffer any engine damage or other problems. If your oil is so low that it may cause damage driving it to the garage, consider adding oil to get you there. The team at Bass Transmissions can walk you through this step to avoid engine damage.
Using Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil
There are two different types of car oil: Synthetic oil and conventional oil. Depending on your vehicle, one will most likely work better than the other. Some newer vehicles require synthetic oil for best results.
Consumer Reports mentions that synthetic oil is made to be more effective at resisting breakdown over time. Synthetic oil is also supposed to be better at withstanding extreme temperatures. Those in very hot or very cold climates may prefer synthetic oil over conventional oil.
Finally, synthetic oil can help to prevent sludge and buildup in the engine. If your vehicle suffers from frequent buildup with conventional oil, consider making the switch. The technicians at Bass Transmissions can discuss what will work best with your vehicle.
When Is the Right Time to Change the Oil?
For many years, the standard mileage to change oil was 3,000 miles. However, with newer vehicle models, this number has grown. For some vehicles, you may be able to hold off until 5,000 or even 7,500 miles! Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the correct mileage. Changing the oil before it needs it can add up as a frustrating expense.
If you’re unsure, talk to a trusted mechanic. They can help you to determine the best time to change your oil if there aren’t any other issues. All vehicles are different, so be sure to treat yours like the unique model it is.
Check the Oil Level at Home for Quick Auto Maintenance
As part of at-home maintenance, you can check the oil at any time. Most vehicles have a dipstick that owners can wipe off and then dip back into the oil. Bringing the stick back out will show the correct oil level. In some cases, your vehicle’s dashboard may have a light sensor for low oil.
If your oil level is low, consider making a call to your local automotive repair shop. Bass Transmissions in Roanoke, VA, is available to the Roanoke Valley for oil changes and additional maintenance.
While it’s possible to fully change your oil at home, it’s best to trust an experienced mechanic. Without the proper tools and experience, it’s easy to mess up this important part of routine maintenance. We recommend checking your oil as often as you need, and then following up with a mechanic for maintenance.
Bass Transmissions Shares the Importance of Oil Changes
Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair offers oil changes and other auto maintenance in Roanoke, VA. Our technicians have years of experience in handling oil changes for both foreign and domestic models. We are available to explain the importance of oil changes to help to keep your vehicle running better for longer.
Bass Transmissions also offers automotive repairs, transmission repair, and more. Let us enhance your vehicle performance with auto maintenance.
Are you looking for a new, experienced mechanic? Call Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair in Roanoke, VA, at (540) 345-8871 or follow us on Facebook for updates. We proudly serve vehicle owners throughout the Roanoke Valley. Reach out today to learn more about the importance of oil changes.
