Change the oil in my car: highlights
When is the first oil change needed on a new machine, and how often should the following be done? -How to change car oil? These questions often occur to us, really every car owner.
How often should I change My Car's Oil?
Today there is an opinion that it is better to change the oil more often. However, a suitable oil can come at a high cost, and the process takes a reasonably long time. We will try to figure out how to determine the most optimal interval specifically for your car and the frequency of changing the oil in the automatic transmission and the engine.
Many factors influence, such as the brand, the model, the year of manufacture, or the way of driving. For example, if your car is a Ford, there are models in which the oil is changed every 10,000 km, while if you drive a Mercedes or Audi, there are models in which it is replaced every 50,000 km.
Remember the rule of thumb to follow when choosing a service interval: it must always meet the requirements of the car manufacturer. First of all, this is the length of the interval through which oil is required in the compressor and engine. The service book contains the interval recommended by the manufacturer, with which the oil in the car should be replaced. Also, you must use a car oil designed for your model of machine.
Oil change recommendations: how to determine the service interval?
In the frequency of oil replacement in an automatic transmission and compressor, many factors can affect the engine. Several circumstances affect the life of the oil in the machine and must be taken into account when calculating the service interval individually. These include the state of atmospheric air (pollution coefficient), car class, quality of fuel and consumables, season, local operating characteristics, and other criteria.
Oil change in a car in "difficult" operating conditions
There are "difficult" operating conditions, which significantly reduce the useful life of the engine oil. First of all, this is the irregular use of the car and long periods between trips. The fact is that during idle time, condensation forms in the engine, which negatively affects the engine.
On the other hand, systematic short-distance travel, especially in the cold season, can become an adverse factor. The engine does not have time to warm up properly.
Thirdly, recommendations to change the oil more often than the deadline set by the manufacturer can be given to those motorists who must be in traffic jams for a long time. Since the maximum load on the engine drops when starting from a standstill, the oil heats up more, which affects its properties. Consequently, a more frequent oil change is required in the car.
How to change the oil in my car
Materials
Car oil.
Oil filter.
Magnetized screw for the casing (optional).
Fixed or adjustable wrench.
Funnel.
The steps you have to follow to change the oil are as follows:
precautions
Do not change the oil after using the car, as the oil temperature can be high and very dangerous. Car oil is best changed warm so you can start the car, and 5 minutes later, you can begin changing the oil.
jack up the car
To change the oil, it is necessary to raise the car, so placing a couple of portable ramps on an elevated surface is the easiest. If you don't have access to it, with two hydraulic jacks lifting the front of the vehicle from the sides, it is enough but always with caution. Set the parking brake, turn off the engine, and leave the car in first gear. For your safety, place a chock brake on the rear wheels.
Unscrew the screw
Check that the engine is not at a high temperature, loosen the plug with a spanner, or failing that, with a wrench until you can remove it by hand, and do not be scared by the amount of oil that will come out of the crankcase reservoir.
Change the oil filter.
To change the oil filter, you must raise the hood, look at the car's manual to locate it, grab the new filter and lubricate the rubber seal with a thin layer of oil to help protect it.
Fill the engine with oil.
After removing all the old oil, you must screw the screw again and fill the oil tank located on the top of the engine. Confirm the capacity of the oil in the instruction manual, and with the help of a funnel, pour the oil into the machine, but not all at once. Little by little and constantly checking the oil level
Check the screw
Make sure you have closed all the plugs and check that nothing is leaking under the car. Remember that used oil is very toxic to the environment, so we recommend you take it to a workshop for recycling.
types of oils
Like there are different engine types, oil manufacturers also strive to offer compounds appropriate for every machine and specific use. A new generation engine built with less assembly tolerance between parts is not the same as a diesel engine or even an engine that has passed 300,000 kilometers.
Different types of motor oil are currently marketed:
The most basic and the one that offers the minor benefits is known as "mineral oil", specially indicated for engines with a lot of wear and tear and that has been working for many years.
One level above, we find the semi-synthetics. They are the most used these days by most car manufacturers. They are oils with good performance in everyday use or even in certain intense situations.
100% synthetic oils are typically reserved for high-performance engines or those with a high level of demand, which need the best lubrication in any circumstance. Synthetic oil guarantees maximum cold lubrication with excellent anti-friction properties, maintaining its qualities even after long periods.
How do I know that my car requires an oil change?
In addition to following the vehicle manufacturer's instructions, some alerts will help you know when the oil needs to be changed.
If you notice the oil's powerful smell, it will be one of those signs. Also, if you see that the warning light that asks you to check the engine stays on and, when you prevent it, you see that the oil level has dropped.
Do not forget that you should always opt for quality motor oils when maintaining your vehicle. Using the proper lubricant for your engine is very important in preventing costly breakdowns and extending the life of your car.