Our vehicles are great for getting us from A to B, but they do require certain levels of maintenance to ensure that we are able to do so safely. Some forms of maintenance, such as MOTs, are more straightforward to understand, whereas oil changes can cause more confusion. There are of course benefits of changing your oil, and so in this blog we explore those benefits as well as how often the change over is required.
What role does oil play in our vehicles?
To put it simply, the ever-important presence of oil in your vehicle ensures that your engine remains lubricated, preventing damage due to friction.
Why are oil changes important?
Of course, oil changes are beneficial for the overall health of your vehicle, but there are in fact specific reasons as to why regular oil changes are of great importance. Are you familiar with them?
- Boost engine performance
Frequent oil changes can make your engine run in a healthier state, resulting in it running for longer and more efficiently. - Keep things running smoothly
Clean oil is vital for lubricating your engine correctly, ensuring that all of the parts work efficiently in unison. - Prevent friction damage
Insufficient oil, whether it be too low or old, can result in friction damage. This is where parts of the engine begin rubbing together whilst running, and the friction results in overheating as your engine is having to work harder to run smoothly. - Aid engine controls
On newer cars, there are a collection of controls which require a healthy level of oil in good condition to operate accurately.
How often should I get my oil changed?
The frequency of oil changes differ from car to car due to the following factors: vehicle age, vehicle type and oil type. Many mechanics provide a rule of thumb for each oil type, and so it is worth finding out which oil your car requires. As a guide, synthetic oil vehicles should have an oil change every 6 months or 6,000 miles. Semi-synthetic oil vehicles should have an oil change every 5 months or 5,000 miles. Mineral oil vehicles should have an oil change every 3 months or 3,000 miles.
What types of oil are there?
Synthetic: An oil type that is created with man-made materials such as polyalphaolefins (PAO’s) and esters. Synthetic oil is commonly used in high-performance vehicles where oil changes are required less frequently.
Semi-synthetic: An oil type that provides great benefits, without the same high price tag as synthetic oil. The oil type is typically used in cars that take shorter journeys, or aren’t driven regularly.
Mineral: A commonly found oil type that is natural, safe and promote good engine health. This oil type is also non-toxic, and biodegrades, making it eco-friendly.
Are you looking for advice on your vehicles oil change? At Bromley Vehicle Test Centre, we can provide advice and support in ensuring that your vehicles engine runs efficiently with healthy oil levels. Get in touch with us to find out more about how we can help, or to enquire about our services. Call us on 020 8460 6666 or send us an email at .
