Regular car maintenance is essential to keeping your vehicle running, and few tasks are as important as oil changes. Unfortunately, many drivers don’t understand why it’s such an essential practice, which can lead to many confused questions when their car won’t run. Avoid asking those same questions later by getting the answers on how to keep your vehicle running smoothly.  

A Car Maintenance Guide to Oil Changes

What does motor oil do?

A car engine consists of many moving metal parts. When the car is running, oil flows through the engine, keeping these parts lubricated so they can continue to move easily and experience minimum wear. Without oil, the friction and resulting heat would continue to grow, causing the motor to decrease in power until it fully locks up. 

Does oil expire?

As oil moves through the engine, it picks up metal shavings and other debris and disperses these items into a filter. This helps to keep the engine clean and cool. Over time, a combination of oxidation, heat, and moisture will cause the additives in the oil to deteriorate and lose their viscosity. When the oil can no longer effectively lubricate the engine, its time to replace it.

How frequently should you schedule an oil change?

Although you’ve probably heard to change car oil every 3,000 miles, modern cars and motor oils have made this rule obsolete. Today’s car maintenance standards vary from one model to the next and depend heavily on the type of oil being used. For the best results, you should check the oil at least once a month to determine its condition. 

Dark and gritty oil is the clearest sign to schedule a change immediately. However, you should also bring your car to an auto technician if you can smell oil inside the cabin, notice exhaust smoke, or have traveled extensively in the last month. Many cars also have dashboard computers that provide accurate oil quality readings, so never put off an oil change when the dashboard indicates it’s time for one.

Is black oil bad?

Most oil has an amber coloring, but it will get darker with use. When you check the dipstick, it’s normal to notice some black oil. You only have to worry if it’s jet black and has a gritty appearance, or a milky texture. The latter issue could indicate water is mixing with the oil, and a technician should look at your engine right away.

If your vehicle is indicating it’s time for an oil change, be sure to visit Wally Carlson & Sons BP for your regular car maintenance. For over 40 years, this family-owned gas station and auto repair shop has served Lindstrom, MN. Their auto technicians have over 30 years of experience fixing cars and can do everything from wheel alignments to exhaust repair. Call (651) 257-2476 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their services.