Some of the most important car care tips include making sure fluid levels are correct and that certain fluids are changed according to the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. Maintaining the proper level of engine oil and having the used oil and filter replaced as directed is essential for the longevity of the motor and the prevention of costly repair work.
The Importance of Optimum Levels of Clean Oil
Your engine needs the right amount of clean oil to work effectively. When you run the vehicle with a lower level of oil than it needs or when you don’t get the oil changed often enough, that can lead to expensive repair costs in the future.
Check your oil at least once a month, and more often if your vehicle is older and tends to leak or burn some oil. Add oil if you need to. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for how often to have the oil changed.
Why Replacing the Oil Filter Is Essential
Getting the oil filter replaced every time you get an oil change is something you can’t skimp on. When the oil filter goes too long without being replaced, it can become clogged and lead to a need for expensive repair work.
Oil filters trap dirt particles and other contaminants, many of them microscopic, that would otherwise get into the oil and the engine. The oil in your car should be clean. You can see when you check it whether the color is still relatively clear or if it’s gone dark. Ideally, you’ll have the oil and the filter replaced before the fluid has become noticeably dirty.
The Correct Filters for Your Vehicle
If you ever decide to start doing your own maintenance, you’ll need to learn about the correct oil and filters to use. Oil filters come in a wide range of types, and different engines need different products. Even filters that look exactly alike and those specified for very similar vehicle models are often not interchangeable.
You don’t necessarily want the cheapest filter on the market. Do a bit of research and determine which quality level of filter makes the best sense for your engine. Look for a product with high filtration efficiency, as those devices are better at trapping the tiniest particles. Even if it’s only a few percent more in efficiency, that can be well worth the extra couple of dollars for increasing the longevity of your engine.
Advantages of Full-Service Oil Changes by Automotive Technicians
If you take your car to a shop for routine maintenance, the technicians there know the right oil weight and filters for your vehicle. When you choose a full-service oil change, the mechanics will perform additional tasks such as checking and topping off all fluid levels and evaluating the air filter, belts and hoses. They may check and adjust tire air pressure and vacuum the floor mats.
Check to see whether your car’s oil change is due or overdue. If so, schedule an appointment for a full-service oil change at your earliest convenience.
