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Taking care of a vehicle requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and efficiency. An essential auto maintenance task includes scheduling regular oil changes, but drivers might not know exactly when to schedule them and what an oil change entails. To discover the answers to a few commonly asked questions about oil changes, consult the guide below.

A Brief Guide to Oil Changes 

What happens during an oil change?

An oil change is a preventative measure performed by an auto maintenance professional to ensure that your car's engine continues to run correctly. Oil is what lubricates all of the engine's moving parts and keeps them from seizing up. When these parts run smoothly, the likelihood of friction and engine overheating  is significantly reduced. Most shops offer additional services during the procedure, such as changing the oil filter and checking essential fluids. 

How often does my oil need to be changed?

Oil changes

It used to be considered common knowledge that drivers should have their oil changed every 3,000 miles. However, times have changed, and so has lubricant technology. Today, modern car manufacturers give their own instructions concerning how often their vehicles require oil changes, often requiring them between 5,000 and 7,500 miles.

How do I know what kind of oil I need?

You can find out how much oil your car needs and how often to change it by reading the owner's manual or contacting the manufacturer. However, most manuals do not advise vehicle owners about the type of oil the car needs. Some newer vehicles now require synthetic oil, but there are also conventional oil, synthetic blend, and high-mileage options to choose from. Conventional oil, made from crude oil and then refined, is usually the most budget-friendly option. On the other hand, while synthetic varieties are made in a lab and often more expensive, they also last significantly longer between changes. A synthetic blend is a middle ground option that features a combination of conventional and synthetic oils, costing less than synthetic oil, but not lasting nearly as long. Lastly, high-mileage oil is ideal for cars with over 75,000 miles, as they are filled with more additives that offer more protection for older engines.

Can I change my own oil?

Technically, it is possible to change your own oil. Of course, that doesn't mean you should. Not only is changing your own oil extremely inconvenient and a huge mess, but you may also miss out on important adjacent services. When you take your car into a shop for a change, an expert examines it for issues that, when spotted early, could save you money on a much bigger fix later. 

 

If you're in need of an oil change or auto repair, you can count on Pearl City Auto Works in Aiea, HI. Since 1987, this family-owned, full-service shop has provided reliable, prompt maintenance and repair services at reasonable prices. Visit their website to view a full list of services, or call (808) 486-4848 to schedule a free digital inspection. 

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