Oil Change near Charlotte, MI

How Does Motor Oil Work?

So, how does oil work? What does it do for your vehicle? Well, it works within your powertrain. Once it is inserted into your vehicle, it will go to work, cycling throughout the powertrain.  Its primary focus will be cleaning the component of dirt and debris. As it completes this job, it will also serve as a lubricant, allowing different parts to interact with each other as intended.

 Without oil, it would be impossible for your powertrain to run, rendering your vehicle inoperable.

Adhering to Your Oil Change Schedule

For most drivers, the need for an oil change will arise once or twice a year. Typically, you will need to have the oil within your vehicle changed for every 5,000 to 7,000 miles you drive. If your vehicle runs on synthetic oil,  you can usually extend this interval closer to 10,000 miles.

If you are unsure of how long it has been since your last oil change, you can always bring your vehicle in for inspection, or take a look at your oil at home. If your oil is dark and dirty, it is likely time for a change. Additionally, there are some other signs and symptoms that you can look out for, including the ones listed below:

• Oil smell inside vehicle
• Oil light comes on
• Excess/visible vehicle exhaust

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it is best practice to seek out an oil change sooner rather than later.

Completing an Oil Change

Once you set up your oil change appointment and bring your vehicle in, we’ll get down to work, going through the steps listed below.

1. First, we’ll need to raise the vehicle up, so we can access the oil pan.
2. With access to the oil pan, we’ll be able to remove the drain plugs so that the old oil can drain.
3. At this time, we’ll also remove the oil filter.
4. Once the oil has drained, we’ll re-insert the drain plugs and add a new oil filter.
5. Then, the car will be ready to receive new oil.
6. Once oil is added, all that will be left is to check for leaks.

Just like that, your oil will be changed! Usually, we can complete this process in 30 minutes to an hour.