An oil change is a routine maintenance task that helps keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. By changing your oil regularly, you can improve your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy.
However, many are afraid of conducting regular oil change maintenance due to several misconceptions surrounding it. Here are some examples of oil change myths that shouldn’t deter you from proper vehicle care.
Myth #1: You Need to Change Oil Every 3000 Miles
This is one of the most common myths out there when it comes to oil changes. In reality, most vehicles only need an oil change every 5,000 miles or so.
The 3000-mile rule was created by oil companies in order to sell more products. However, with the advances in engine technology, this rule is no longer necessary.
If you’re unsure about how often to change your oil, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Myth #2: Use Only Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is a great option for those who want to protect their engine and don’t mind paying a higher price. It doesn’t need to be changed as often as regular oil, so you won’t have to worry about waiting for a service appointment. The only downside is that it’s more expensive than traditional oil.
Myth #3: Don’t Buy Oil in Bulk
Another common myth is that you should never buy oil in bulk. The thinking behind this is that oil can go bad over time, so it’s best to buy only what you need.
However, this isn’t necessarily true. In fact, buying oil in bulk can actually save you money in the long run.
If you buy oil in bulk, you can often get a discount. This can help you save money, especially if you need to change your oil frequently.
Myth #4: You Cannot Switch Oil Brands
It’s not uncommon for drivers who switch to synthetic oil to switch back to regular oil. While some mechanics might advise you to stick with synthetic oil, it’s not necessary, and you can switch back if you want to.
You can mix different brands and types of oil without any issues. However, if you use lower quality oil, you will need to change your oil more frequently than if you use higher quality oil.
Myth #5: You Should Have a Thick Engine Oil
Thickness is not as important as quality when it comes to engine oil. Viscosity is the measure of thickness, and all oil has a viscosity rating. The thicker the oil, the higher the viscosity rating.
Thick oil does not protect your engine as well as thin oil. Thick oil is thicker because it contains more additives to protect your engine. The problem is that when it gets hot, the additives can actually break down and cause deposits to form on your engine.
Conclusion
There are many myths surrounding oil changes. However, the most important thing to remember is that you should consult your car’s owner’s manual to determine how often to change your oil.
If you are worried about your oil change maintenance, Grace Automotive can help you out. We are an auto mechanic in Surrey that can guide you through the oil change process. Get in touch with us today to learn how.
