Two root problems can occur when you don’t change or check your oil. Low oil levels might result in your engine overheating, and parts of the engine block such as the pistons will start to become damaged without the necessary lubrication motor oil provides. Secondly, your motor oil will gather dirt and debris over time, and if left unchecked and ultimately unchanged, it can slowly cause damage that could add up to cost thousands of dollars. Read on to discover the importance of regular oil changes with the experts at the Standard Jeep Ram service centre near Calgary, then get more service tips to keep your vehicle running in top condition.
What Does Motor Oil Do?
Now that we’ve discussed what happens if you don’t get your oil changed, let’s look deeper into what motor oil does. Your oil is a lubricant for the extremely high speeds that occur in the moving parts of the engine block, but it has several other functions as well:
- Motor oil absorbs the high heat from the engine components, keeping it from overheating on those Maple Creek roads
- Fresh oil keeps your vehicle running smoothly and can even help maintain good fuel economy
Without enough oil, your vehicle’s engine components can warp and wear out; pistons may weld themselves to the cylinders - Dirt and debris can build up if regular oil changes are not maintained and a number of engine functions can suffer
How Often Should I Change My Vehicle’s Oil?
While maintaining proper oil levels is important for short-term and long-term efficiency on your Lethbridge commutes, regular oil changes are just as important to keep your drive smooth and safe. Conventional wisdom says your oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, but these days, most drivers can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil change services. Your owner’s manual or a scheduled service with your local professional at Standard Jeep Ram can help you with the specifics of your vehicle and driving style and environment. Factors that could affect service intervals include:
- Calgary residents know extreme weather, cold or hot, can affect the lifespan of oil
- Road construction, gravel, sand, or dirt roads can cause oil to get dirty faster
- Driving habits can affect the speed at which oil is evaporated
Otherwise, it’s always good to check your oil regularly and watch your engine temperature for signs of wear. Explore our team’s expert model research to learn more about your vehicle.
How Do I Change the Oil Myself?
- Check your owner’s manual to ensure you purchase the correct type of oil.
- Elevate your car with jack stands or steel ramps.
- Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan underneath your engine.
- Place a basin or bucket underneath the plug, then unscrew the plug and allow the old oil to drain out completely, which could take 15 minutes.
- Once all the oil has drained, replace the plug.
- Locate your oil filter, and remove it with an oil filter wrench. Extra oil may drain out when you remove the filter, so keep the basin underneath to catch it.
- Take the new filter, and rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal to ensure the filter is watertight.
- Set the new filter in place and tighten it by hand.
- Remove the oil cap and pour in the recommended amount of new oil according to your owner’s manual.
- Replace the oil cap.
- Check the oil level by pulling out the dipstick. If you’re still low, you may add another ounce and check the level again.
Come to Standard Jeep Ram for Oil Change Service & More
Changing your oil at home can be fairly daunting, so if you’d like to leave it to a true technician, simply stop by our service centre near Maple Creek or contact us for any questions. You can also rely on Standard Jeep Ram for more automotive advice like how often to change your oil and what is tire rotation to get the most out of your vehicle.