Changing your oil is one of the most vital services and one of the most routine. Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and heat and friction become unstable without regular oil changes. Our service center near San Patricio County, TX, provides the oil service you need to keep your engine healthy and your car running smoothly.
Find out our top three tips before bringing in your vehicle for an oil change.
1. Determine Your Vehicle's Oil Change Interval
Your vehicle needs regular oil changes to avoid preventable damage, but it may not be clear when an oil change is needed. Motor oil can become dirty and ineffective over time with particles getting past the filter. When your oil is old or dirty enough, heat and friction will build in your engine, damaging components and reducing your engine's lifespan.
To start, we recommend you check your owner's manual and work with our certified technicians to determine the best interval for your vehicle. Most vehicles need an oil change every six months or between 5,000 and 7,500 miles, whichever comes first. While you may have heard that the rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles, most vehicles have improved engine technology or use synthetic oil, making it possible to drive longer before needing an oil change.
When you consult your owner's manual and work with our technicians, it may be necessary to account for your driving habits and conditions when determining an interval. Most owners' manuals include recommended intervals for both "normal" and "severe" driving conditions. Severe driving conditions can include the following:
- Driving Short Distances
- Start and Stop Traffic
- Towing or Carrying Heavy Objects
- Extreme Hot or Cold Weather While Driving on the Highway
- Driving on Steep Hills or Mountains Regularly
2. Watch for Issues
Just because you have figured out an oil change interval for your vehicle doesn't mean that you shouldn't also watch for signs that your vehicle needs oil service. A quick visual inspection of your vehicle can catch if you notice oil stains under your car, which can be the result of issues with the oil pan gasket, oil plug, or valve cover gasket.
Another clear sign that your vehicle needs oil service or an oil change is if the oil light indicator is on. This indicator light lets drivers know that there is low oil pressure, meaning you should stop driving immediately and tow your vehicle to your nearest Chevrolet service center.
Some of the other red flags that you need oil service or an oil change include:
- Uneven Idle
- Clattering Noises
- Rough Performance
- Unusual Smells
3. Check Your Dipstick
If you haven't checked your vehicle's oil dipstick before, be sure to check your owner's manual beforehand and not to remove the dipstick when your engine is still hot. Once you have confirmed the best practice for removing your dipstick, you can take it out and use a rag to inspect your vehicle's oil. You will want to check the oil level and the consistency and color of the oil.
Clean motor oil should look translucent and have a golden-brown color. However, you will need an oil change if the oil is dark brown, gritty, milky, or comes out in globs. If your oil has any of these qualities, bring it in your vehicle as soon as possible.
Schedule an Oil Change near Corpus Christi
You can discover an easier way to change your oil when you choose our service center. With our specialized equipment and certified technicians, you can expect minimal wait times and a high degree of assurance. Contact us today to schedule an oil change.
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