Owning a car is a big responsibility. You've got to keep on top of the maintenance or you risk losing out on your investment. Not only that, but you risk ending up on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. Oil changes are one aspect of your car's maintenance that you can't afford to overlook. Motor oil is responsible for lubricating your car so that it doesn't overheat and so the vital components don't wear out too quickly. Here are some tips that will help you get the most out of your oil changes.
Choose the Right Timing for Your Oil Changes
When it comes to the oil changes for your car, you've got to keep them on a schedule. If you're not sure how to pick a schedule for your oil changes, here are three methods for you to consider.
Monitors
If you have a newer model car, it's probably equipped with onboard sensors for all your maintenance needs, including the oil changes. An easy way to avoid missing an oil change is to pay attention to the monitors. As soon as your oil change light comes on, head to a service shop such as Car And Truck Services Inc.
Mileage
Mileage is another easy way to keep track of your car's oil change needs. Most service departments recommend that you change your oil about once every three thousand miles. Each time you get an oil change, write down the mileage on a sticky note and add three thousand to the number. Leave the sticky note in your car. When the odometer reaches the number on your note, have your oil changed.
Seasonal
Finally, you can also go with a once every three months schedule for your oil changes. If that's the schedule you've decided to go with, schedule your oil changes once every season. That way, you can keep track of the schedule, and you know that your car will get an oil change once every three months.
Take Care With Your Oil Selection
If you live in a region of the United States that experiences extreme temperatures during the winter or summer, it's crucial that you choose the right oil for your car. Running the wrong oil in your car during extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on the engine. Run a low viscosity oil in your car during the winter and a high viscosity oil during the summer. Low viscosity oils are thinner, which means they won't thicken up and clog up your engine during the winter. Higher viscosity oils will provide better heat protection during the summer.
Stick With one Service Department
When it comes to caring for your car, you need to stick with one service department for your oil changes. Taking your car to the same shop each time it needs servicing will ensure that all the maintenance records are in one convenient location. Not only that, but the service technicians will be more familiar with your car, which means they'll be able to identify changes more easily.
