As a driver, keeping up with car maintenance means more than regular car washes and filling up your tank. Instead, you should be familiar with the intricacies of how a process like an oil change can affect the safety and performance of your vehicle. Car oil is a crucial component in keeping your car running smoothly and will go a long way towards keeping you safe on the roads. With a bit of help from a trustworthy mechanic, you can start to better understand how car oil works and why it’s integral in your auto upkeep plan. 

1. What Does Oil Do?

Oil is injected into your car’s engine by a knowledgeable mechanic to ensure that each of the moving parts is lubricated enough to work together without grinding or friction. The oil helps to keep the interior of the engine from overheating while you drive, essentially negating any risk of combustion while you’re behind the wheel. 

2. What Type Should You Choose?

Your mechanic will introduce the idea that two different types of oil can be used in your car: mineral and synthetic. Mineral oil comes straight from the ground and undergoes an intricate refining process before it is delivered to consumers. The draw to mineral oil is that it has been used and trusted for a long time and it is generally much less expensive than other, modern options. 

Synthetic oil, on the other hand, starts with a mineral base and is loaded with additives to help keep it cleaner for more miles. Synthetic is usually a bit pricier, but its durability and clean-burning capabilities make it a popular choice for many. 

3. When Should You Change the Oil?

The key to getting the most out of car engine oil is to know exactly when it needs to be replenished. The most up-to-date rule for scheduling oil changes is to check in with your mechanic every 5,000 miles. Because of recent innovations in engineering, car engines are now designed to work more cleanly and efficiently, allowing drivers to go farther between tuneups. Waiting too long to have your oil changed can be dangerous, so if you notice that the oil light is lit up on your dashboard, don’t hesitate to bring your car in for an inspection. 

Are you ready for an oil change in Loveland, OH? If so, look to Ken Marcotte’s Professional Auto Service. Their team of highly skilled mechanics knows that when it comes to maintaining your car, there is no room for error. They make every effort to provide meticulous inspections so that they can provide you with the most effective and efficient solution available. For more information, visit them online or call at (513) 683-7852.