One of your responsibilities as a car owner is to get the oil changed regularly to extend your car’s lifespan and improve its mileage and performance. However, a lot of car owners neglect this task, leading to even more costly auto repairs. Learn more about why and when your car needs this service with these common questions about oil changes. 

A Beginners Guide to Oil Changes

Why should I get my car’s oil changed?

Oil lubricates moving engine parts, preventing them from rubbing against one another and overheating. But motor oil collects dirt and excess moisture over time, making it mucky and unable to lubricate properly. This added friction will speed up wear and tear and cause the engine to overheat, eventually resulting in failure. With regular oil changes, you’ll save money on more extensive engine repairs. 

When does my car need one? 

In the past, car experts recommended getting an oil change every 3,000 miles. How often your car needs it, however, depends on the engine and manufacturer. For your specific vehicle, check the owner’s manual. It specifies the recommended mile intervals for oil changes.

Many newer cars also have oil monitors that alert you if it’s time for a change, which you can check as well. Other factors like the car’s age, driving conditions, and your driving style will also influence how often you need to change the oil.

Are there signs that I need to change my car oil? 

The most obvious sign that you need an oil change is if your engine is making loud knocking, rumbling, or grinding noises. That’s the sound of your unlubricated engine parts breaking each other down little by little. 

Another sign to watch for is a burning smell in your car cabin. Too little oil means that the engine parts are generating too much friction. If you smell burning, or melting plastic, pull over immediately, because your engine may be overheating. 

Are they expensive?

It depends on a few factors, including the kind and brand of oil you need, your car engine’s specs, and the mechanic’s rate for service. The bigger your engine and the higher the quality of the oil, the more you’re going to pay. Ultimately, following your oil maintenance schedule is more cost-efficient than the repairs that are needed if you don’t.

If it’s time to change your car’s oil, contact the experts at Puma’s Auto Care for reliable and budget-friendly auto repair services in Brooklyn, NY. For over 17 years, their team of trained mechanics have provided a wide variety of services, from simple tune-ups to transmission problems. Send a message via their website or call them at (718) 272-6306 to book an appointment.