For many of us, our car is one of the most significant investments in our lives, allowing us to get from point A to B with ease and comfort. Part of ensuring that your vehicle runs smoothly for as long as possible means changing the oil regularly – but just how do you do this, and how often does it need to be done?
Why Is Oil Important In Your Car?
Oil is a lubricant used by internal combustion engines to reduce friction between moving parts within the engine. It also helps prevent wear on the engine itself, which can lead to premature failure. The oil acts as an anti-wear agent, preventing metal surfaces from rubbing against each other, and it also reduces friction between moving parts like pistons and bearings.
The oil should be changed at regular intervals, depending on usage and driving conditions. This will help ensure the engine continues running efficiently and there are no problems down the line.
What Should You Do When Changing Your Oil?
The first step when changing your oil is to drain the old oil out of the system. If you don’t have a funnel or similar tool, you’ll need to remove the dipstick and use a rag or towel to soak up any excess oil.
Next, you’ll want to add new oil to the engine. This is usually done using a funnel, although some people prefer to pour the oil directly into the engine. Either way, make sure you’re adding enough oil so that it covers all the moving parts inside the engine.
If you’ve got a manual transmission, you may need to take off the cover over the top of the gearbox before adding the oil.
You’ll then want to replace the dipstick and tighten everything back together so that your engine is secure and safe.
Why Do You Need To Change Oil?
So, just why is it so important to change your oil? Some key reasons include:
- Wear & Tear
Oil can prevent metal parts from wearing against each other. Over time, this can cause damage to the engine if not replaced. Oil provides a thin layer of protection between moving parts, keeping them smooth and reducing friction.
- Cleaning
Oil keeps dirt and grime away from the engine, helping to keep it clean and free from corrosion.
- Cooling
Oil helps cool the engine by absorbing heat and dissipating it through the air.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
There is no set rule about how often you should change your oil. However, it is recommended that you change your oil every 5000 to 7500 miles. This is because the oil becomes more contaminated with debris as it sits in the engine, and this can lead to issues such as overheating and poor performance.
However, if you drive a lot, or if you live in a very dusty area, you might want to consider changing your oil more frequently than this.
Final Thoughts
Getting your oil changed is a key element of car ownership, and should be included as part of a standard annual service. To help prolong the life of your vehicle, book your motor in for an oil change today.
