Oil change is a hassle-free and quick procedure when done at an automotive service center by a mechanic. Lubricating oil is important for any vehicle and timely replacement is essential. While there are many benefits of regular and proper oil change, it is important it is done by a mechanic. Explore the key benefits of oil change and why it should be done by a professional.
Signs that Your Car Needs Oil Change
Your car has a system to inform you when an oil change is due. However, there are some tell-tale signs of issues that can also mean that you should get your car checked by a mechanic for an oil change. These signs and alerts include:
- Check engine light or oil change light
- Noise from the engine or frequent knocking
- Dark and/or dirty oil
- Smell of oil inside your car
- Smoke from the exhaust
A car should get its engine oil changed every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Some newer vehicles have this limit extended to 6,000 miles or 6 months. You should get your car’s oil changed based on the mileage or period mentioned in the owner’s manual.
Why Oil Changes Should Be Handled by Trained Mechanics?
An oil change may seem to be a simple task. However, there are many reasons why you should get the job done by an experienced professional. Some of the most notable reasons are as follows:
1. Safety
Oil change should be done safely. Oil is messy and stays hot for some time after you have stopped your engine. The oil should not only be handled carefully but it should also be disposed of according to certain standards. The car will have to be jacked up, which is a safety risk in itself.
2. Proper Steps
When you go to a mechanic, you are assured that the job will be done properly. There is no room for second guesses and hoping that everything works out the best. When a professional takes care of the oil change job, you know that the result will be reliable.
3. Convenience
Convenience is also an important reason for choosing a professional for the oil change job. No matter how good you are at handling the job yourself, an oil change is anything but convenient. It is a messy job and can get you dirty. Besides, an oil change is a time-consume task. The mechanics at automotive shops change oil multiple times a day. They can replace the engine oil and other fluids quickly without you getting your hands dirty.
Going to a professional can save you additional hassles that come with an oil change. An oil change requires much more than just buying the oil. You will need the following items:
- A car jack stand
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Rubber gloves
An automotive shop already has everything required for the job. Besides, you will also need replacement parts and consumables during the procedure. When you rely on a mechanic, there is no need to procure all the items and materials. Thus, there are more than enough reasons to get the help of a professional to change the engine oil in your car.
Importance of Timely Oil Change
Now that you know how a mechanic can make a difference when changing engine oil compared to a DIY project, it is important to realize the benefits of timely oil change. These benefits can be realized to their fullest potential only when you seek the services of a professional:
- Optimal engine performance
- Reduction in harmful emissions
- Optimal fuel efficiency
- Extended engine life
- Detecting other maintenance needs
Timely oil change can extend the engine’s life in a number of ways. It will contribute to maintaining engine lubrication, keep the engine parts cooler, removes engine wear particles and sludge, and thus improves engine and vehicle longevity. If you want to realize all these benefits of timely oil change, it is important to get the job done by a mechanic.
