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Why do I Need Oil Change Services?

One of the best things you can do for your car is to change the oil regularly. Oil lubricates the engine, reducing friction and the resulting heat buildup. But over time oil breaks down and loses its effectiveness. Oil also gets dirty as it moves through and cleans the engine. Worst-case scenario, if the oil is never changed, eventually the engine could seize up—stop moving—because without adequate lubrication, it could get so hot that the metal engine parts would melt together.

Of course that won’t happen to you, because you do get your oil changed. But how often? Your car will perform better and last longer if you change the oil according to the recommendations in the owner’s manual. In fact, auto warranties are usually void if you do not follow the minimum oil change frequency guidelines in the manual.

Averages Don’t Tell the Whole Story When It Comes to Oil Change Services

How you use your car affects how often the oil should be changed. Towing heavy loads or leaving your car idling for long periods of time can mean that your oil breaks down more quickly than a driver who is logging mostly highway miles. Or if you drive only short distances--especially in cold weather--your car never completely warms up, which can also lead to oil deterioration due to contamination from water or other combustion by-products.

How often do most people get their oil changed? It varies from every 3,000 miles to every 10,000 miles, depending on the age, engine type, and usage of your vehicle.

Oil Change Services – Types of Oil

Motor oil comes in three main types: conventional motor oil, synthetic oil, and blended.

Conventional motor oil is the most common type used and is the least expensive. Most conventional motor oils are made from crude oil.

Synthetic motor oil is made from oil-based components or it can be made from raw materials. The oil is processed so that the molecules are smaller and more evenly-sized than in conventional oil. Detergent and dispersant additives are blended in to boost the cleaning capability of the oil, and other additives, such as anti-wear compounds, are included to increase engine life.

Blended Synthetic Oil is a mixture of conventional motor oil with synthetic oil. Blended synthetics provide many of the benefits of synthetic oil at a somewhat lower cost.

What is Usually Included in an Oil Change Service?

An oil change service should always include a change of the oil filter. The oil filter removes dirt and other contaminants that get into the oil. The filter needs to be changed regularly so that oil flows though it easily and so it continues to catch contaminants that the oil cleans from the engine.

At the same time your oil is changed, many services will also provide a multi-point check up of things like tire pressure and fluid levels. The service can also alert you to other items that may need to be replaced, like windshield wipers (should be changed every 6 to 12 months) or air filters (should be changed every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, or more often in dirty or dusty conditions.)

Oil Change Services – Just Show Up!

Getting your oil changed is easy—just show up! A quick lube service will usually get you in and out in about 30 minutes. If you have a full-service oil change with additional diagnostics and other services, it could take longer—just bring a good book to read while you wait, or drop the car off and come back when it’s ready.

Pfefferle Tire and Automotive Service is a two generation, family owned and operated repair shop. Our services include quick lube service, tires and auto repair, and routine maintenance. What sets us apart from other shops? Our technicians do not work on commission, so there is no need for them to oversell. We like to say, "We advise and you decide!"

Contact Pfefferle Tire and Auto Service to schedule your preventative maintenance appointment! (513) 829-1900

Written on Sunday, September 30, 2012 by pfefferle
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Blog

Averages Don’t Tell the Whole Story When It Comes to Oil Change Services

Oil Change Services – Types of Oil

What is Usually Included in an Oil Change Service?

Oil Change Services – Just Show Up!

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