Many people don’t know this, but oil and lube are actually two of the most important fluids for your car. Not only do they keep your engine running smoothly, but they also help to protect your car from corrosion and rust. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why oil and lube are so important for your car.
What is oil and lube?
Oil and lube are fluids that lubricate and protect your car’s engine. They keep the engine clean and cool, and prevent metal parts from grinding against each other. Over time, oil and lube break down and need to be replaced. You should check your car’s owner’s manual to see how often to change the oil and lube. Some mechanics recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first.
What are the benefits of oil and lube?
Oil and lube are important for keeping your car in good working condition. They help to protect the engine and other parts of the car from wear and tear, and can also improve fuel economy. Regular oil and lube changes are essential for maintaining your car’s performance and longevity.
How to change your own oil and lube
If you’re not comfortable with changing your own oil, there are plenty of places that will do it for you. However, if you’re the do-it-yourself type or you’re just looking to save a few bucks, here’s how to change your own oil and lube.
What You’ll Need:
– Oil
– Funnel
– Jack and jack stands
– Wrench (usually a socket wrench)
– Rag or paper towels
– Disposable gloves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Park your car on a level surface and set the emergency brake. Place jack stands under the car for safety.
2. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the car. It will be on the bottom of the engine near the oil filter. Put on your gloves (if using) and use the wrench to loosen the drain plug. Be careful, as hot oil may come rushing out when you remove the plug. Have your rag or paper towels handy to catch any drips.
3. Allow the oil to drain completely into a container. Once it has stopped dripping, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely with the wrench.
4. Remove the old oil
When to take your car in for an oil and lube change
It’s important to keep up with your car’s oil and lube changes to ensure peak performance and longevity. But how often should you really be taking your car in?
The general rule of thumb is to change your car’s oil every 5,000 miles, or every 6 months- whichever comes first. However, this may vary depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle. Always consult your car’s owners manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme hot or cold weather conditions, you may need to change your oil more frequently than the average driver.
No matter how often you need to change your oil, it’s always a good idea to check the level and condition of your oil regularly. A simple dipstick test can tell you a lot about your car’s current state. If the oil looks dark and dirty, it’s probably time for a change.
If you’re ever unsure about when or how to change your car’s oil, don’t hesitate to ask a professional mechanic. They can help you make sure that your car is always running at its best.
Conclusion
It is important to use oil and lube for your car because it helps to protect the engine and keep it running smoothly. Over time, the oil in your car will break down and become less effective, so it is important to change it regularly. Lubricating your car also helps to prevent rust and corrosion, which can damage the engine. By taking care of your car and using oil and lube regularly, you can extend its life and keep it running better for longer.