Why Is Oil So Important?
Your oil change is a service that you should never skip, but you might be wondering why your engine needs oil in the first place. Oil does a few different things for your engine, but its most important job is lubrication. By lubricating the small metal parts in your engine, it reduces friction and heat build-up. Oil also forms a seal between your rings, pistons, and cylinder walls. As you drive, your oil might begin to pick up contaminants. These contaminants can slowly emulsify your oil until it turns into sludge. If you routinely change your oil though, you shouldn’t have to worry about this. Your fuel filter will keep most of the contaminants away from your oil, but it isn’t perfect. By changing your oil routinely, you can make sure that your engine has what it needs to keep working. If you need your oil changed, and you’re near San Diego, Poway, or Escondido, then you can visit us today at Toyota of Poway.
How Do You Check Your Oil?
It can be hard to tell when you’re supposed to bring your model in for an oil change. There are a few ways to tell, but the methods below are the most reliable.
- Look for a Sticker: If you brought your model somewhere for an oil change, there’s a good chance that they left a sticker with a recommended date and mileage number. If you’re past either of these figures, then it’s probably time to change your oil.
- Checking the Old-Fashioned Way: The easiest way to check your oil is with a dipstick. Once you pop your hood, you’ll want to take your dipstick out and wipe it down. From there, you simply dip it back into the oil. If your oil is black, or it has a sludge-like consistency, then you should change it as soon as possible.
Where Can I Change My Oil?
Your oil doesn’t last forever, so if you need to change it, you can visit us at Toyota of Poway. Our mechanics will be able to get you back on the road quickly.
- Two Birds, One Stone: You’ll need an oil change every few thousand miles. Since you’ll usually need a tire rotation around this time, these two services are often bundled together. This allows you to take care of two things in one trip.
- How Long Will My New Oil Last?: This depends on a few different factors. Synthetic oil lasts longer than conventional oil, but not every vehicle is compatible with it. Your driving habits can also affect how long your oil lasts. If you need an estimate, then you can ask our mechanics for their professional opinion.