Regular oil changes
play an integral role in keeping your engine’s various components lubricated
and running smoothly. As a rule of thumb, oil changes are recommended for most
vehicles every 3,000 miles. So if you do an average amount of driving, your car
will need three to four oil changes a year. Rather than pay people to perform
this simple maintenance task, why not do it yourself? The following tips will
help you pull off your next oil change with finesse.
Acquire the Proper Grade of Oil
To get the best
possible performance out of your engine, you’ll need to give it the proper
grade of oil. If you’re unclear on what type of oil is recommended for your
vehicle, have a look at the car’s owner’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s
website. There is also oil available that can improve engine performance during
colder weather.
Use a Garage Drip Pan
Changing oil can be a
messy business. Have you ever wondered why all the mechanics you come across
are practically caked in oil? Fortunately, a resilient garage
drip pan can prove useful in
preventing messes. Once the plug has been removed from your car’s oil pan,
place the drip pan directly beneath it to catch the outgoing oil. Even after
the bulk of the oil has been emptied, dripping will continue for a while, so
don’t move the drip pan until you’re sure the oil pan is completely empty.
Take Personal Comfort Into Account
Using a car ramp to
elevate your vehicle is sure to make the oil-emptying process much easier. This
way, you’ll have considerably more wiggle room and be able to take advantage of
natural lighting.
Without regular oil changes, you’re liable to see a decrease
in engine performance, as well as a reduction in fuel efficiency. Habitually
shrugging off oil changes can also lead to a prematurely kaput engine. In the
interest of preserving your engine and saving money, consider changing your own
oil.