Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

What an Oil Change and Oil Filter Replacement Do To Your Car

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It’s become an automatic part of car ownership. Occasionally, you’ll bring your car in for an oil change. They’ll ask you if you want an oil filter replacement too. You’ll drive away and let it slip from your mind for a few thousand miles until you start the process all over again. 

But have you ever stopped to think about what an oil change does to your vehicle? 

A car is made up of more than 10,000 parts, each intricately woven together to create complex systems that make your vehicle run. The engine is one of the most complex systems, with motor oil and an oil filter playing a leading role. 

What is motor oil?

Motor oil is a lubricant that reduces friction and wear in internal combustion engines. It is designed to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, such as the pistons, rods, and crankshaft, and to clean, cool, and seal the engine. Motor oil is made from a base oil, which is typically refined from crude oil, and various additives that improve its performance.

There are several types of motor oil, including conventional, synthetic, and semi-synthetic lubricants. 

What an Oil Change and Oil Filter Replacement Do To Your Car

Conventional motor oil is made from naturally occurring petroleum and is the most commonly used type of lubricant. It is suitable for most vehicles, but may not provide as much protection as synthetic or semi-synthetic oils. 

Synthetic motor oil is made from artificially created base oils and is designed to provide better protection and performance than conventional oil. It is more expensive than conventional oil, but it can last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures. 

Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of conventional and synthetic oils and offers a balance of performance and cost.

Motor oil has several vital functions in an engine. It reduces friction and wear by forming a thin film between moving parts, which helps to prevent metal-to-metal contact and reduces heat generation. It also helps to cool the engine by dissipating heat and carrying it away from the moving parts. 

In addition, motor oil helps to seal the engine by filling in the gaps between the moving parts and preventing the escape of gasses.

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle, including the manufacturer’s recommendations, the type of engine, and the driving conditions. It is essential to use the correct motor oil to ensure the engine is properly lubricated and protected.

Motor oil should be changed regularly to maintain its effectiveness and to prevent the build-up of contaminants, which can lead to engine damage.

What is an oil filter?

An oil filter is a device used to remove contaminants from engine oil, transmission oil, lubricating oil, or hydraulic oil. It is an essential component of an engine or mechanical system that helps to keep the oil clean and free from contaminants, such as dirt, metal shavings, and other particles. These contaminants can cause wear and tear on the engine or mechanical system, reducing its overall efficiency and lifespan.

The oil filter is typically located near the oil pan, or at the bottom of the engine. It is generally made of a paper or synthetic material designed to trap and filter out contaminants from the oil as it passes through. 

The filter works by allowing the oil to pass through a series of pores or openings that are small enough to trap contaminants, but large enough to allow the oil to flow freely.

There are several different types of oil filters, including full-flow filters, bypass filters, and cartridge filters. Full-flow filters are designed to filter all of the oil that flows through the engine, while bypass filters only filter a small portion of the oil at a time. Cartridge filters are a type of bypass filter that can be removed and replaced easily.

Oil filters need to be replaced regularly as part of routine engine or mechanical system maintenance. If the oil filter becomes clogged or damaged, it can cause problems with the engine or mechanical system, such as reduced performance or increased wear and tear. 

It is important to use the correct type and size of oil filter for your specific engine or mechanical system to ensure it is functioning properly.

What an oil change does to your car

An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure involving replacing your car’s engine oil. It is crucial to perform regular oil changes because clean oil is essential for the proper functioning of your car’s engine.

During an oil change, a mechanic will first drain the old oil from the engine. This is typically done by using a large wrench to loosen the oil pan drain plug, which is located on the bottom of the engine. The old oil is then collected in a container and disposed of properly.

Next, the mechanic will remove the oil filter, a cylindrical component that removes contaminants and impurities from the oil as it circulates through the engine. The oil filter is typically located on the side of the engine and is removed using a special tool.

After removing the old oil and oil filter, the mechanic will install a new filter and pour in fresh oil. The oil’s type and viscosity will depend on your car’s specific make and model and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Once the new oil has been added, the mechanic will start the engine and run it for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate through the engine. They will then check the oil level using a dipstick, adding more oil if necessary. Finally, the mechanic will replace the oil filler cap and dispose of the old oil and oil filter properly.

Overall, an oil change is a simple but important maintenance procedure that helps to keep your car running smoothly. It helps to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and wear. It also helps remove impurities and contaminants that can build up over time, damaging the engine. 

By performing regular oil changes, you can extend the lifespan of your car’s engine and improve its overall performance.

When was the last time you had an oil change and oil filter replacement?

One of the most important maintenance items is an oil change. If you have questions about car maintenance or aren’t sure when your oil was last changed, we’re here to help. 

Motor oil is one of the most essential tasks; schedule your oil change today. 

Does Your Hybrid Vehicle Need an Oil Change?

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It’s hard not to notice there are more electric and hybrid vehicles on the road now than ever before. Maybe you’re thinking of switching and investing in new hybrid technology. But what will that do to your maintenance routine? Do hybrid vehicles still need an oil change? 

Before we get into maintenance, let’s dive into the statistics. 

The different types of electric vehicles include:

  • Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) – they are powered by traditional gasoline and an electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged by regenerative braking as you drive. 
  • Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) – they are similar to HEVs but rely on plugging in to recharge the battery. 
  • All-electric vehicles (EV) – these run on electricity alone. 

While all-electric vehicles are growing in popularity, hybrids have been on the market longer, and continue to have higher sales. Currently over 5.4 million hybrid cars have been sold, and are on the roads all across America. 

Does Your Hybrid Vehicle Need an Oil Change?

If you own one or are thinking of buying one, what does that mean for your regular maintenance routine?

Do hybrids need an oil change?

Hybrid vehicles run on both gasoline and electricity. While this increases the gas mileage, and ensures you won’t use as much gas as with more traditional cars, it still works in the same manner. A hybrid vehicle still relies on a combustible engine for part of the process, meaning you’ll still need to include oil changes as a part of your normal maintenance routine. 

The good news is you can stretch out the time between visits. Just like you’ll find your gasoline goes farther, so will your motor oil. The typical hybrid manufacturer suggests you can go 10,000 miles or more between oil changes, more depending on how you drive. Check with your owner’s manual to see what your manufacturer suggests. 

Keep in mind that a combustion engine will always need regular oil changes to continue to operate well. If you drive your hybrid only short distances, it may push the mileage beyond a year or more. Just like traditional vehicles, you should change the oil regularly based on mileage or age, ensuring the motor always has fresh oil to keep it working at its best. 

Manufacturers will also recommend specific types of motor oil. Because a hybrid still uses a combustible engine, you can schedule an oil change like you would with a traditional car. 

What about other hybrid maintenance items?

Hybrids have special needs. Because they are essentially two cars in one, it’s important to understand the different types of maintenance it will need over time. 

Because it runs off a combustible engine, it will need much of the standard care, including:

  • Oil changes – while using a battery for some of the power will put less strain on the engine, it will still need regular oil changes. 
  • Tires – adjustments, rotations, filling, and replacement will all be standard care for hybrids. 
  • Filters – because it has the inner workings of a combustion engine, it will still need air filters and cabin filters as a part of your normal care routine. 
  • Fluid refills and flushes – vehicles require many different types of fluids to stay running smoothly. To ensure levels remain constant, and you maintain and flush them for refills at the required intervals, be sure to check with your owner’s manual and work with a mechanic who can provide proper maintenance for as long as you own your vehicle. 

Hybrids still use a braking system, however, they rely on regenerative brakes for full operation. As you brake, the energy is absorbed back into your battery to keep it fully charged. As a result, these brakes need special requirements to keep them working at their best. Be sure a mechanic understands the nuances and can provide you with expert care. 

One of the biggest differences is with the car battery. Hybrid batteries must be powerful enough to provide as much energy as fuel gives gasoline vehicles. This means they are larger capacity than traditional car batteries, and have special needs. You can’t purchase a traditional battery and expect it to do the same job. However, hybrid batteries tend to last much longer than in a fuel-based car. Some manufacturers offer up to a 150,000 mile warranty. Just be sure to understand the nuances of the warranty, and follow the specific guidelines to ensure you don’t void it by not following the rules. 

Because a hybrid vehicle runs on both fuel and electricity, you’ll find it has a complex electrical system that should be maintained over time. They are built with auto start and shut off features that help with fuel economy, and to preserve the life of the battery. The electrical system should be calibrated periodically to ensure it provides proper power within the system. Too much power or a jolt of electric current could cause serious damage to your starter or transmission. 

Schedule care for your hybrid

Above all, your hybrid vehicle requires regular routine maintenance to ensure it keeps running and in good condition. Don’t wait until you have a problem. Instead, schedule regular maintenance to ensure you catch potential problems before they grow into bigger issues. 

A great place to start is by giving your hybrid vehicle an oil change. Because a hybrid relies on a standard combustible engine, it uses standard motor oil built for all combustible vehicles. Just be sure to check with the manufacturer for guidelines on what oil to use. 

Finding a mechanic with a routine maintenance item like an oil change is a great way to find a mechanic who treats you fairly, and gives you a chance to discover someone in your local community who you can rely on to do the job correctly. 

Regular vs Synthetic Motor Oil – What You Should Know

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When you own a car, regular maintenance is a part of ownership. You fill the tank up with gas because without it, your car wouldn’t go. You change out the motor oil every 3,000 miles or so because if you don’t, you’ll eventually be stranded by the side of the road.

But have you ever thought about what motor oil is? Or how it works? Or if you’re using the right type of motor oil for your vehicle?

What is regular motor oil?

If you drive a car with an internal combustion engine, it requires motor oil to operate. It’s one of the most critical components to keep the engine running well.

Inside the engine are a variety of parts that work together, create friction, and convert that to energy using a tremendous amount of heat. If the parts don’t stay lubricated and operating well, fuel consumption is diminished, the vehicle won’t operate as designed, parts will wear down and break, with engine failure not far behind.

While there is a debate about oil changing frequency, there isn’t a fight over the necessity to change it regularly. It’s better to err on the side of frequency and keep all parts lubricated and working well.

In the past, regular motor oil was the only choice. It worked well, and drivers never gave it much thought. Manufacturer’s often had several motor oil viscosities for drivers to choose from based on the type of driving they did. Viscosity determines the fluid’s resistance to flow; in a hot climate, a higher density would better serve the engine. Checking with your vehicle’s operational guidelines will explain the type of oil best suited for your car’s engine and why it’s recommended.

In general, traditional motor oil is still used in many vehicles because it’s cost effective, it’s easy to find, and it works well, especially in older cars in excess of 75,000 miles on the odometer.

What is synthetic motor oil?

Regular vs Synthetic Motor Oil - What You Should KnowSynthetic motor oil is a human-made lubricant created by artificial chemical compounds as a substitute for petroleum-based oils.

Synthetic oil was first developed back in 1929 as a response to needs during World War II. In the 1970s, better artificial oils were produced to give engines better fuel economy during a time when petroleum-based products were skyrocketing in price.

The process of producing synthetic motor oils has been perfected to where today, some engines perform better with these new lubricants than with more traditional oils. Although synthetic oils were once created to benefit high-performance vehicles, today’s technological advances have made automotive manufacturers rely on them for better fuel efficiency.

Visually, regular and synthetic motor oils may look the same, but fundamentally they perform differently. Petroleum-based products are thicker at lower temperatures and thinner as things heat up. To change the viscosity, manufacturers add different additives to make traditional motor oil perform better under different circumstances.

Synthetic motor oils are designed to behave in certain ways right from the start. That means they don’t degrade or change viscosity over time, other than degrade as it circulates through the engine and picks up contaminants over time.

Synthetic oil will provide better engine protection, will last longer, and comes in advanced formulas that might be specifically made for your vehicle’s engine. This is where it’s important to understand what your vehicle’s manufacturer suggests, and stick with the recommended schedule.

Is synthetic motor oil better for your engine than regular motor oil?

In a word, yes. Although a traditional petroleum-based lubricant will do the job well, it can’t compete with the lab-created motor oil created specifically for engine performance.

Synthetic based motor oils use higher quality oils than traditional products. That makes them more chemically stable, less likely to oxidize and acidify, and slower to break down and lose their protective qualities.

That gives your engine better protection while allowing better performance at the same time. You’ll find synthetic motor oils can combat sludge and deposit buildup, reduce wear and tear on your engine, as well as control breakdown no matter what your driving conditions are like.

Chemistry makes the difference, especially in today’s technology-driven performance vehicles.

Does synthetic motor oil have more advantages over regular motor oil?

Synthetic motor oils were created with a specific purpose in mind: to protect the engine and make it perform as well as possible. That’s something crude oil can never do, because manufacturers simply adapt to the qualities of the oil already in place. Synthetic motor oils:

Protect the engine better – as the engine operates, parts are in constant motion and connection with each other. If they do so with a protective barrier between them, the engine will perform better and stay operational longer.

Keep the engine cleaner – when oil circulates through the system, it can pick up particles and contaminants that break down the functionality of the oil. These can damage your engine over time. Synthetic oils are created with this process specifically in mind, meaning they’ll stay cleaner longer in everyday driving situations.

Flow better in low temperatures – when your car is at rest, motor oil stops along with it. It takes time when the engine starts to circulate the oil back into the system, and start protecting various parts. In cold temperatures, that process can slow down, putting the system at risk.

Protect better in high temperatures – an engine in operation runs hot. When you add in heat from the environment, it gives more risk to the parts underneath the hood. This increases as you navigate the Rocky Mountains, especially if you pull a boat or trailer. Synthetic oils are made for that type of driving.

My owner’s manual states regular motor oil is fine. Should I upgrade?

Switching from regular motor oil to synthetic is perfectly acceptable and can help your engine in many ways. You’ll find synthetic motor oils built for different situations – just ask one of our mechanics which would be best for your vehicle.

However, if your older car has high mileage, it may still be beneficial for you to use traditional oils. If an engine has never used synthetic oils, has been poorly maintained, with infrequent oil changes, we would recommend sticking with conventional oil.

The key is always to provide the proper maintenance based on what your vehicle needs most.

Need help deciding which motor oil is best for your vehicle? We can help with that.

Do You Really Need To Change Motor Oil Every 3,000 Miles?

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Driving a car means you have to perform a few maintenance tasks along the way to keep it running well. We know we have to fill it up with gas, or it will die. We understand motor oil is necessary to keep the engine running. We need new tires, or we put the passengers inside the cabin at risk.

But when?

Everything comes with a warning sign. As that little needle gets closer to E, you’re aware if you don’t stop at a gas station, you’ll be stranded along the side of the road.

Popular guidance tells you to replace the oil in your car every 3,000 miles. But is that the best advice?

Do you need to change your motor oil every 3,000 miles, or is there some other way to evaluate when it’s needed?

What motor oil does

What does motor oil do inside your vehicle? Most of us know that motor oil keeps your car running, but it does a lot more than that.

Today’s motor oil is a complex mixture of oils and additives that accomplish a variety of things under the hood. It:

  • Lubricates moving parts
  • Helps reduce engine wear
  • Removes dirt and contaminants from the oil
  • Cools engine parts
  • Enhances fuel efficiency
  • Protects the engine against heat and cold
  • Helps protect the emission system

Do You Really Need To Change Motor Oil Every 3,000 Miles?Without the proper motor oil inside your vehicle, it’ll quickly wear down various parts.

Every time you start up your car, the combustion process degrades your motor oil. It adds contaminates to the oil supply, which over time, builds up. In the beginning, motor oil can handle it without issue. But as it wears, it continues to break down, turning into sludge that can harm your engine.

That’s a lot for a few cans of motor oil to handle. That’s also why it’s essential to change it out regularly.

But is it important to change motor oil every 3,000 miles?

Now that you know why changing out motor oil is important, let’s get back to the question of how often.

It doesn’t take a lot of searching online to discover there are many different views on how often you should change out your motor oil. But who’s right?

Start by looking at the source of information.

Quick-lube places will tell you to change your oil every 3,000 miles. They even give you little stickers as a reminder.

It’s important to consider the source, however, before you take their advice. Quick-lube stores offer one service: motor oil changes. That means they have a vested interest in getting you in as much as they possibly can. They are also usually sponsored by a particular brand of motor oil. Again, it’s all about the sales.

Another resource to look at is your own vehicle’s manufacturer. If you check your owner’s manual, you’ll likely find they make their own recommendations. With today’s technology, a lot of them recommend an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

That’s a lot different than the 3,000 miles.

But there’s another thing to consider. In most cases, it’s not about how many miles you drive, it’s also about the timeframe between oil changes. For some drivers, it may take a year or more to hit the 3,000 miles. Others may hit that mile marker in a matter of days.

Driver A works from home and only takes their car out to run errands. They drive ten miles or less at a time, with constant starting and stopping. With frequent stops, the motor oil never heats up enough to boil off the moisture condensation. That means more engine wear over time. They shouldn’t pay attention to the 3,000 rule, but should instead change it out twice a year or so.

Driver B has a long commute, driving more than 20 miles one way that consists of mostly highway driving. With this slow and steady drive time, they could easily push the upper edge of what their vehicle’s manufacturer recommends.

In both cases, as the car ages, more frequent oil changes may be in order. Remember, the key to keeping your engine running well is clean performing motor oil. It’s one of the least expensive ways to ensure your car stays running smoothly.

What type of motor oil should I use?

All motor oil is not the same. Which motor oil you use in your car should be determined by a variety of factors, including the climate you live in, your driving habits, as well as the age of your vehicle.

When you bring your vehicle into our service station for an oil change, you can discuss which type of oil you prefer to use for your engine. We’re here to give you advice every step of the way.

In general, there are four types of motor oil:

Synthetic motor oil – this is ideal for high performance vehicles. It provides higher viscosity levels and helps fight oil sludge.

Synthetic blend motor oil – this is becoming increasingly popular as it combines both conventional motor oil with synthetic. It offers extra resistance to oxidation, and more protection against lower temperatures.

Conventional motor oil – this is ideal for older models cars that have operated on this type of motor oil for years.

High mileage motor oil – This is specifically blended for vehicles that have exceeded 75,000 miles. It helps minimize leaks and reduces emissions.

When was the last time you changed your motor oil?

To work out a plan that works well with your vehicle, talk with one of our mechanics today. We can give advice on how often it should be replaced, and what type of motor oil to add to your vehicle’s system each visit.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Car’s Motor Oil

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One of the very basic items to keep your vehicle running is motor oil. Outside of gasoline, it’s the number one thing you’ll change out on a routine basis.

But as you buy another can, or drive into your local service station for a motor oil change, have you ever wondered what would happen if you skipped it altogether? What if you waited a few months? What if you didn’t follow the guidelines? How bad could it be?

Many of the guidelines state that a car’s motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. If you check your owner’s manual, depending on the vehicle you drive, it may push that up to 5,000 or more.

What should you believe?

What motor oil does

Before we get into how frequently you should change it out, let’s talk for a moment about what it does.

Motor oil has one purpose: it’s designed to keep your car running smoothly. It’s designed to lubricate the engine and help carry heat away from the engine compartment. As the motor oil circulates throughout the system, it continuously lubricates the thousands of parts that come together and make your vehicle operational. And at the same time, it helps dissipate heat, carrying it away from where it can do the most harm.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Car’s Motor OilThat makes motor oil pretty important, right?

Think of motor oil as the lifeblood of your vehicle. If it doesn’t have a high quality supply running throughout the system, it can function at peak performance. And that means things will start to wear down over time.

Fresh, clean motor oil will keep your car in its best possible condition.

If it degrades, your car will start to wear down.

What really happens without fresh motor oil?

Glad you asked. It’s important to keep in mind that every car reacts in its own unique way. Your car won’t suddenly wear out without new motor oil at 3,001 miles. It’s more of a gradual process.

As motor oil works and moves throughout the system, it picks up all kinds of dirt and debris. If it’s working well, it can push this debris away from the moving parts and into an oil filter. But if you don’t replace the filter (it’s part of a regular oil change), the filter will eventually become too clogged to do its job. That means whatever the motor oil pushes in, it bypasses it and leaves it within the system.

That’s when engine parts start to wear down. Instead of fresh, clean motor oil, dirty fluid is circulating throughout the system. And it might not be doing a very good job. It can be abrasive, causing parts to rub together in wrong ways. It might not keep each part properly lubricated.

Motor oil isn’t just oil. Instead, it’s a combination of oil and additives designed to keep your car running at its best. It has things like detergents, dispersants, rust-fighters and friction reducers all working together to provide your vehicle with what it needs to thrive. You know when you’re washing dishes and the soap bubbles eventually dissipate because of all the grime that makes its way into your sink? That happens to motor oil too. The additives can’t work the way they did when you first added motor oil to the system, not once the system is compromised.

So the oil gets thicker, dirtier, and loses the ability to do what it was designed to do – keep heat out of the engine compartment. Heat builds. Parts warp. Damage starts to occur. And your car might not drive quite the way it did before.

But you still might notice anything. You might continue driving.

This turns oil into sludge. The volume of dirt and grime becomes too much, and it can’t process it at all. It barely moves, loses most of its lubricating qualities, and brings no relief to your vehicle’s parts.

If you leave it this way for too long, the engine will seize, and stop working altogether.

A high quality motor oil change is something you’ll barely notice in your monthly budget. We guarantee you’ll feel the pain of replacing a seized engine. It can cause thousands of dollars to bring your car back into working condition.

What else happens along the way?

Now that you know what happens within the engine compartment itself, let’s talk about a few other things you should know.

Did you buy a new or used car with a warranty? The warranty is only good if you follow the rules. And if you read the fine print on the warranty itself, you’ll find that it states you have to service your vehicle according to a schedule. If you don’t service it according to factory guidelines, the warranty will be null and void. Yes, that means you should keep track of every motor oil change you do. For that matter, you should keep a record book of every maintenance item you do, just to be able to refer back and determine all that you’ve done to your vehicle over the years. It can also be something that gives you an edge when trying to sell it down the road.

And long before you face a seized engine, you’ll also find your vehicle shows poor engine performance. When detergents and lubricants aren’t working correctly, you’ll hear and feel your engine sputtering. It can materialize as poorer gas mileage too.

It’s time to change your motor oil today

There’s an adage: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And while that’s true for every system in your vehicle, it definitely applies here.

If you want a car that continues to operate well throughout its life, giving you the longest lifespan possible, it’s important to keep it working well.

You can do that easily just by pulling into our service station on a regular basis. Three or four times a year, for most.

It’s not about the money you’ll spend on new motor oil. It’s about the money you’ll save on repair bills down the road.

Simple Answers: Check Engine Light

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Question:  My check engine light is on and my boyfriend thinks he can get the code read and know what part to replace to fix my car.  I say it’s not that simple.  Who’s right?

Answer:  The simple answer is you are! But let’s look at it logically and break it down.  There are hundreds of things that can go wrong with your vehicle.  Some are simple but some are actually quite complicated.

In today’s vehicles over 80% of engine functions are computer controlled.  The computer receives information from dozens of sensors.  When a sensor reading is out of range, a trouble code is automatically entered in the computer and the check engine light is illuminated.

Unfortunately it’s a common misconception that the trouble code will tell you exactly what is wrong.  Because the truth is, that for any given trouble code, there are any number of faults that would trigger that code.  For example, a code indicating a misfire on cylinder three could be due to a bad spark plug, a failed coil, ignition problems, compression issues, etc.  Each of those possibilities requires additional diagnosis to confirm or rule out a cause.  Once a trained technician with state-of the art diagnostic tools and access to extensive research databases, can then nail down the problem, and set about getting it fixed.

A complicated diagnosis may take some time.  Your boyfriend might be tempted to bypass a diagnosis charge by taking a trouble code reading with an inexpensive scan tool and start replacing parts.  He might get lucky, but chances are he’ll end up like a recent customer who ended up spending hundreds of dollars on parts that weren’t needed and didn’t fix his problem because he tried reading the code himself.  So save yourself time and money and have a professional with the right equipment check your vehicle.

Just one more thing… a flashing Check Engine Light indicates that a condition exists that could lead to serious damage.  You should get to your service center right away.  A steadily illuminated Check Engine Light is less urgent but still needs to be checked out.  Keep in mind that a minor issue today can become more serious if left unresolved.

Change Your Oil, Drivers!

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As engine technology advances, recommended oil change intervals have gotten longer.  High quality oil in a well-engineered engine has led to extended intervals.

Here’s the problem:  With longer oil change intervals, it’s extremely important to follow them closely.  Back in the day of 3 months or 3,000 miles, if you went an extra month or an extra thousand miles, your oil was still fresh enough that it didn’t have time to build up much sludge.

But if your recommended interval is 6,500 miles and you go over another thousand, you’re getting into heavy sludge territory.  This can cause big problems.

You absolutely need to follow mileage intervals on changing your oil very closely.  And don’t forget your severe service schedule.  If you do a lot of stop and go driving, short trips, drive in dusty or polluted conditions, hot or cold weather, or haul heavy loads, you’re driving in severe service conditions.  Is your driving closer to the regular schedule or the severe service schedule?  It’s your call as the driver to decide when to change your oil to protect your engine.

If your car came from the factory with synthetic oil, the recommended oil change interval is for synthetic oil.  If you use conventional oil, you shouldn’t be using the synthetic oil interval – you need to shorten it.

Service advisers often report that when they talk to a driver with 200,000 miles or more on their vehicle, the vehicle owner will say their secret is changing the oil on time.  Please don’t skip an oil change.  Once sludge has started to build up, it’s tough to get it out.  So don’t let that happen to you!  Change your oil, drivers!

Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

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It’s hard to ignore that your car needs gas to operate. If you don’t add more when the gas tank is low, you run out. And when that happens, your car stops working. It comes to a grinding halt, and you’re stuck wherever it happens … until you fill up the gas tank once again.

But what about car oil? It works in a similar manner. Your car needs oil to operate. If it runs out, your car will cease to operate. And a lot of damage will occur to the working parts of your car.

Yet a lot of car owners are ignoring this important fluid. If they have a newer car, they assume the electronics will tell them when things aren’t working. They drive and drive, almost waiting for a problem to slow them down.Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

As a result, repair shops all over are finding more vehicles than ever are coming in with engine damage. If the engine doesn’t have the proper fluids, it operates as best it can. Until it can’t. And a lot of problems occur in between.

What does car oil do?

For a car to operate as it should, it’s important to perform routine maintenance. That consists of an oil change, draining the old oil out and replacing it with fresh, new oil. An oil filter is usually replaced at the same time.

Cars have lots of moving parts in them. They are designed to move together, causing friction and heat. Car oil lubricates the engine and absorbs this heat, which lets all the internal parts work together without the chance of overheating.

This, of course, is a constant process of sending the oil throughout different parts of the engine, collecting dust, dirt, and other particles as it performs its task. The older it gets, the more it breaks down, unable to perform as it was originally intended. It becomes less effective at lubricating all the parts within the engine.

How often should you change car oil?

That depends on what car you drive.

Every owner’s manual for every car manufacturer will list specific guidelines for how often you should replace your oil. Be aware that not every motor oil is the same. You can’t run to your local discount store and pick up a can of oil and expect it to work for your vehicle. In fact, doing so can be downright dangerous.

According to the American Petroleum Institute, there are many different motor oils for sale in retail locations for the average DIYer that will cause more harm to your engine than good.

Your car requires a certain type of oil created for how your vehicle was built. This is where following manufacturers guidelines is an important part of your car’s maintenance routine. American built cars have different requirements than European cars, with the latter often requiring more rigid specifications.

When it comes to your motor oil, err on the side of selecting the best. Pay attention to what the car’s designers have to say, because it can help you avoid a costly mistake.

What is synthetic car oil?

Even if you have an older car, we think an upgraded oil is still beneficial for your car. Here’s why you should consider moving to a synthetic car oil.

Synthetic oil is made from natural gas or crude oil that goes through a rigorous process to convert it to motor oil. This process makes all of the molecules uniform in size. That means it flows through your car more uniformly. It reduces the amount of friction produced as it operates, reducing the wear on your engine.

If you use name brand, higher quality motor oil, you’ll have a better product. And with a better product means your engine will have a longer life. Is it worth a few dollars now to keep your car running well for years to come?

But what about older cars? Should you always buy upgraded oil? 

If you have a car and it’s been going strong for over 100,000 miles, it’s hard to argue that it’s been working fine with more conventional motor oil. Why not give it just the basic grade?

As your car ages, it starts showing signs of wear. Even the parts you can’t see unless you really look.

That may be precisely why it’s a good idea to upgrade your motor oil. Giving it a far superior product now means you’ll be giving it better fuel for operating. You know how you feel better when you eat, right? It’s the same for your vehicle; give it a higher quality product, and it will perform better over time.

What should I watch for to determine when I should change the oil?

Now that you know why your car needs motor oil and what you should be putting in, how do you know it’s time?

Mileage

Check your vehicle’s owner manual. Manufacturers list how often you should change your motor oil based on how many miles you put onto your car. This is a good guideline to follow to ensure you’re changing your oil regularly.

Dates

It’s also a good idea to pay attention to how you drive. Have you taken a road trip recently? Have you put on excessive miles in a short period of time? Or has your car been stuck away in a garage for months as you work from home? Paying attention to what you do in between oil changes will ensure your car always receives fresh oil.

Check engine light

Never ignore the little lights that pop on your dashboard. They illuminate for a reason. Some cars have oil change lights, while others may flash “check engine” instead. Proceed to your mechanic as soon as possible to avoid bigger problems.

Noise

Motor oil provides lubrication, a protective layer as engine parts move and operate. If it doesn’t have enough to do its job, you’re going to start hearing noises. That knocking, banging, clanging, or rumbling noise is trying to tell you something. Don’t ignore it.

Does your car show signs of needing an oil change? Make your appointment today.

Denver: Have You Considered Synthetic Oil?

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Denver: Have Your Considered Synthetic Oil?After recently seeing an ad for synthetic oil in Denver and realizing I didn’t know much about it.  I asked my helpful Express Car Care service adviser for some background.  Basically the inside of your engine gets really hot because of friction from the moving parts and from burning fuel.  Oil lubricates the moving parts to keep them from getting too hot.

The problem begins when oil turns to sludge, which is kind of a thick jelly.  Sludge clogs up little passages so that the oil can’t protect parts of the engine.  So the two best ways for Denver car owners to prevent sludge build-up is to always change their oil on schedule, and to use synthetic oil.

Synthetic oil is much more resistant to becoming sludge than conventional oil.  My service specialist says it has the added benefit of lasting longer than conventional oil so the recommended change interval can be slightly longer.

The thing I think is cool is that synthetic oil is more slippery than conventional oil.  Regular oil molecules are long chains where synthetic oil molecules are rounder.  It’s like which is more slippery, a pile of pencils or a pile of marbles?  This means that synthetic oil does a better job of lubricating my engine so it doesn’t get as hot, or wear out as fast.

Using synthetic oil can help Denver motorist improve engine performance and help their engine last longer.  I’m really glad my service adviser filled me in on synthetic oil.  Maybe you should consider synthetic oil for your next oil change.  Give us a call at Express Car Care and let us help.

The Maintenance Mindset: Full-Service Oil Change

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The Maintenance MindsetPeople generally accept that many things in life require regular maintenance:  their teeth, clothes, homes, yards and so on, but Colorado motorists don’t often apply the same idea of maintenance to their vehicles.  If you never brush your teeth or go to the dentist, you’ll become painfully aware of your neglect when you get a big cavity.  Once the damage is done, we learn our critical lesson and start to take better care of things.

Unfortunately, Denver people too often learn the hard automotive lesson only after they bring their vehicle to Express Car Care on a tow truck.  So many times, a little routine maintenance would have prevented an expensive breakdown.

So how do Denver car owners get into the habit of taking care of their vehicles?  It’s so easy to forget it’s not like cutting the grass which you can see every time you pull in the driveway.

Here’s something that will help:  The key to good vehicle maintenance starts with the oil change.  Think about it – when you go in for a full-service oil change in Denver, your cheerful Express Car Care service adviser will check all your fluids.  If one of them is low, he can look for the reason why.  If your serpentine belt is worn, he’ll see it and let you know.  Corroded battery cable – they’ve got you covered.  And they’ll check to see if your manufacturer has recommended any critical services at your current mileage.

The oil change becomes kind of a focal point, a way to check in to see what needs to be done.

The fact is that vehicle inspection surveys consistently reveal that over 80% of vehicles have one or more needed repair or maintenance service that goes undone.  Vehicles are generally very reliable and can take a lot of abuse and neglect – but you can only press your luck for so long.

So when you come into Express Car Care for an oil change, you get a visual inspection of your car and a reminder for recommended services so you can avoid a total failure.  Also keep in mind that your service professional can help you work out a maintenance and repair plan for your vehicle, prioritizing and scheduling the work to make sure you and your family are safe and help you avoid expensive breakdowns.

In addition to full-service oil changes, at Express Car Care we also offer air conditioning service, transmission service and tire rotation.

Give us a call.  Express Car Care 303.691.2760

 

 

 

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