Timely vehicle maintenance is necessary to ensure the utmost safety on the road. A well-tuned engine also increases fuel efficiency and lowers the cost of owning the vehicle. Several factors influence the automobile’s running condition. But an oil change mainly reduces the risk of wear of the engine to increase its endurance. Here are some important points to consider before you book an oil change service at the next available date.

The right time to consider an oil change

Engine oil is a type of lubricant that coats all moving components of an engine and transmission assembly. Without proper lubrication, friction can result in premature forced wear of the mechanical parts. So, you must know exactly when the vehicle is due for an oil change by referring to the owner’s manual. Different types of vehicles need to be driven a certain number of miles before the oil needs changing. Modern vehicles also have smart chips that monitor the oil quality and notify you of any upcoming maintenance.

Factors that affect oil change

Changing engine oil needs to be done as per the car manufacturer’s suggestion for a particular make and model. Also, several factors like driving style, road terrain, external temperatures, vehicle idling, heavy towing, and low-speed long-distance driving affect the frequency of oil change. Note that manufacturers recommend certain guidelines for safe driving, especially during the first few months after purchasing the vehicle. Also, the older the vehicle, the more frequent oil changes become, depending on the type of product used.

Types of oil changes available

Viscosity is one of the main factors to consider for an oil change. Oil change services usually offer conventional oils, full-synthetic motor oils, synthetic blends, and high mileage oils. Technicians will first determine the type of engine and gear assembly to choose one of the options. Conventional options are less expensive, but you will have to go into service to replace these oils frequently. Synthetic oils, even though more expensive, last longer and provide better lubrication. Conventional oils are directly refined from crude oil and may contain impurities that affect engine performance in the long run. Ask the technician to use a synthetic blend instead that has been refined and processed to improve fuel efficiency.

Services included in the package

Oil change services don’t restrict maintenance to just replace lubrication in vehicles. Technicians at these garages are also trained to perform complete safety inspections and check other fluid levels. For example, modern cars have hydraulic power breaks that use special fluids to apply force and counter traction. Hydraulic brakes need to be regularly checked for any leaks or disparity in levels to ensure the proper and safe working of the braking system.

Coolant levels in the vehicle

Technicians will also inspect the coolant levels used to run the engine at optimal temperature. Most vehicles are topped off with antifreeze that circulates the engine at peak performance. Heat expands metal, and this fluid cools down all the rapidly moving metal parts. Coolants mainly prevent the engine from ceasing up due to overheating. Individual vehicles make and model will function with different types of coolants. So, ensure that the oil change service technician replaces the right type of coolant. Using the wrong coolant can void the vehicle warranty.

Chassis lubrication

The chassis supports the entire weight of the engine assembly and all passengers using a balanced system of suspension and joints. Many modern vehicles don’t necessarily require chassis lubrication. But it is better to have the technician check and assess the bushings, steering bars, sway joints, and u-joints.

Additional services

Premium oil change services also offer fluid flushing and filter replacements for various vehicle parts. Ensure that the garage you visit conducts these inspections to see if the fuel system needs cleaning, or the engine needs to be flushed to remove contaminants. Automatic vehicles are inspected to check if the transmission fluids need replacement. All modern cars also have power steering controlled by a particular fluid in the engine. A high-pitched whining sound coming from the main engine indicates this problem. These service inspections are more or less offered at every major oil change service and garage across the country.

Check the warranty

Oil change services are covered under the maintenance warranty of most premium makes and models for a limited period. This warranty can be renewed to ensure the manufacturing garages don’t charge an exorbitant fee for repairs and maintenance. You can also use coupon codes, discount vouchers, and promotions to get the best deal online while browsing for oil change services.