Have you ever felt that moment of dread when you see the oil change light come on in your car? It feels like another thing that got piled on to todays to do list, and it’s not one that most people look forward to. Kind of like a dentist appointment or a visit to the DMV. But have you ever wondered about why it’s so important to regularly change your oil?
As a mechanic with over 19 years of experience, I’ve noticed a trend in advertisements claiming to get your oil changed in just fifteen minutes! But, what exactly are they doing in that short amount of time? And what should a proper oil change include?
To start, let’s talk about what an oil change really is. Essentially, it’s the process of draining out the old oil in your car’s engine and replacing it with fresh oil. This helps to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent damage form wear and tear.
Now, back to those fifteen-minute oil change advertisements. While it may seem convenient or impressive to get your oil changed in such a short amount of time, it’s also important to consider what’s actually included in that service. (In Fact,) a proper oil change should involve more than just a quick drain and refill.
A Comprehensive Oil Change Service
When it comes to keeping up with your vehicles maintenance, it is very easy to get lost in the day-to-day responsibilities of life. But in order to avoid costly breakdowns and keep your car running smoothly, it is essential to take care of the basics. That’s where a comprehensive oil change service comes in.
A top-notch oil change service starts with a skilled mechanic who knows their way around your car’s engine. They’ll use a high quality engine oil and an oil filter to help your car perform at its best. But, that’s just the beginning.
During your oil change, your mechanic should also perform a maintenance inspection. This includes checks for exterior lights, wiper blades, washer nozzles, and even your horn. They’ll also inspect fluids, battery cables and clamps, belts and hoses, and lastly a check for any leaks.
However, that’s not all! Your mechanic should also inspect your tires, engine air filter, axles, rack and pinion, and engine oil drain plug. A thorough inspection increases the likelihood of catching potential issues early on, and avoiding breakdowns and costly repairs down the road.
And let’s face it, nobody wants to be stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. So, take the time to invest in a comprehensive oil change service with a maintenance inspection. Not only will your car thank you for it, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re driving a reliable vehicle.
On average, this service should take about an hour to complete. During this time, a properly trained and experienced mechanic will perform a comprehensive inspection, documenting any findings and alerting you to potential issues that could lead to breakdowns down the road.
By taking the time to perform these checks, you can avoid unpleasant surprises like a dead battery, worn-out tires, or even an overheating engine. Plus, catching these issues early on can save you time, money, and the hassle of dealing with a tow truck.
While an oil change is an essential part of vehicle maintenance, consider going the extra mile and investing in a premium car maintenance service. Think of it like an oil change on turbo – it’s more involved and well worth it in the long run.
Finally, a quality oil service should include a well-organized and easy-to-read report of the inspection results. This not only helps you keep track of your vehicle’s wear over time but it can also increase its resale value. So, the next time that your maintenance light or oil change light comes on, don’t treat it like a chore – think of it as an opportunity to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.