Oil Change in Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Why, What, and When of Changing Your Car’s Oil

Why Oil Is Important for Your Car

Cars rely on their owners for care, and coming in for service in the form of oil changes is one of the simplest ways to ensure it performs as intended. At Yeoman Service Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, we can take care of your routine oil change service in an instant. A regular replacement of oil is important for your engine for many reasons. Motor oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine. In turn, that reduces the potential for friction, limits the amount of engine heat generated, and prevents engine wear. Motor oil also ensures a clean engine unit by absorbing dust and debris. However, oil only remains effective for so long. The slippery texture of the oil is known as viscosity, and over time, it changes. Oil thickens and begins to stick instead of lubricating; at that point, it can begin to cause the very problems it’s designed to solve. It also degrades with time. Long-term neglect can lead to poor fuel economy, high engine temperatures, and a chance of overheating or engine failure. If you require an oil change and oil filter change, set up an appointment today at (260) 456-2169.

What Type of Oil Do You Need?

Oil is available in different brands and types. The main four kinds are synthetic, synthetic blend, high mileage, and conventional, and each serve a specific purpose. Synthetic oil is typically reserved for performance cars since it helps prevent engine strain from the high output. Meanwhile, the synthetic blend is often used in heavy-duty vehicles that frequently tow and haul. It’s formulated to prevent breakdown caused by the high temperatures created in higher stress situations. Conventional is the most commonly used type of oil, and high-mileage oil is best in vehicles with over 75,000 miles. What about the numbers on the packaging? For example, 5W-30. These are the viscosity levels. The “W” stands for winter, and the attached number is the viscosity level in lower temperatures. The number following the dash is the viscosity in higher temperatures. We’ll determine the best type for your specific vehicle and driving habits.

When Do You Need an Oil Change?

Are you wondering when exactly you need oil change service? Intervals depend on several factors, including your vehicle type, age and condition, and the type of oil used. General recommendations for newer vehicles range from 5,000 to 7,500 miles; some older models may require oil changes more often, such as every 3,000 miles. Frequent stop-and-go traffic, towing, and heavy hauling all put added strain on your engine and your oil, and it might warrant an earlier visit. Your owner’s manual will let you know the best mileage to visit, but you are more than welcome to come in for a consultation as well. We’ll assess all the factors specific to you and determine the best mileage or timing interval. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your oil. If you notice it’s chronically low or a darker color instead of light amber, it should be changed. If you’re due for an oil change, visit Yeoman Service Center at 540 E Pettit Avenue.