We all know that we need oil changes for our cars, but why exactly? What does the oil do, why does it need to be changed, how often should that happen, and what kind of oil do you need to be using? Your Chevy dealer explains.
Your Chevy Dealer's Guide to the Oil Change
What and Why
What does oil do in your engine exactly, and why does it then need to be changed? The first thing it does is lubricate the engine's moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Without proper lubrication, engine components can overheat and seize up, and no one wants that. A seized engine usually can't be fixed. Next, your engine oil helps dissipate heat generated by the engine, preventing it from overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to absorb heat, making regular changes necessary to maintain engine temperatures that are good for your vehicle.
Another thing that oil does is to collect dirt, debris, and contaminants as it circulates through the engine. Regular changes ensure these harmful particles are removed, and that means you won't get a sludgy buildup. Finally, clean oil simply reduces friction, which allows the engine to operate at peak efficiently, leading to better fuel economy. Regular changes can help you save money at the pump by ensuring your engine runs at peak performance.
Getting Your Oil Changed at the Chevy Dealer
While DIY changes might seem cost-effective, there are several advantages to having your oil changed professionally by your Chevy dealer:
Expertise and Experience
Our Chevy technicians are trained and certified to work on your specific vehicle model. They know the correct type and amount of oil to be used (and oil is finicky: just a bit too much or too little is bad for your engine), just how tight to make that drain plug, and what to do with all the old oil. With us, the job is done quickly and right the first time.
Comprehensive Inspection
During a professional oil swap-out, our technicians perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle. They check for potential issues like leaks, worn-out parts, and other maintenance needs, helping you address problems before they become serious.
Proper Disposal
Used oil is hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly to avoid environmental contamination. We follow strict guidelines for the safe disposal and recycling of used oil.
Understanding Oil Types and Recommendations
Choosing the right oil for your Chevy is important if you want to get optimal performance. Here's a breakdown of the main types of oil and what we might recommend:
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is the standard choice for many older vehicles, and it does provide reliable performance and protection under normal driving conditions. It's suitable for older Chevy models and those with lower mileage. If you go conventional, each change is a bit cheaper, but you have to get the oil swapped out more often.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil offers superior protection and performance, especially in extreme temperatures and high-stress conditions. It's designed to provide better lubrication, reduce engine wear, and improve fuel efficiency. Many modern Chevy models are made to work with synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is more expensive, yes, but it also lasts a lot longer than conventional. It's often the best choice unless you have an older model not made to work with it.
Synthetic Blend Oil
Synthetic blend oil combines conventional and synthetic oils, offering a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness. It provides better protection than conventional oil and is suitable for a range of driving conditions.
High-Mileage Oil
High-mileage oil is specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles on the odometer and contain additives that help reduce oil consumption, minimize leaks, and improve engine longevity. If you've got an older Chevy model with a lot of miles on the clock, this might be the right choice for you.
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
This is going to depend on several factors, including your driving habits, vehicle model, and the type of oil you last used. First, always follow the intervals recommended in your Chevy owner's manual. These guidelines are based on extensive testing and are designed to keep your engine in optimal condition.
If you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as extreme temperatures, in heavy stop-and-go traffic, in dusty environments, or towing heavy loads, you may need to change your oil more often. Talk with us about the best interval for your specific driving conditions. And, as mentioned earlier, synthetic oil typically lasts longer than conventional oil and may extend the time between changes.
Overall, if you're using conventional oil and have an older model Chevy you use hard, you might be swapping out oil as often as every 3,000 miles. If you have a newer model and use synthetic oil, you could go up to 10,000 miles before a change.
Signs You Need Fresh Oil
Check Engine or Oil Light
If your check engine or oil light comes on, this one's obvious. Schedule service with us as soon as possible.
Noisy Engine
If your engine becomes noisier than usual, or you hear knocking or ticking sounds, it may be due to old or low oil. Fresh oil can restore proper lubrication and reduce noise.
Dark or Dirty Oil
Regularly check your oil's color and consistency. If it appears dark, dirty, or gritty, it's time for a change. Fresh oil should be a light amber color and free of grit. ​Try to check on your ​oil at least once every two weeks if you drive frequently.
Decreased Performance
If you notice a decline in your vehicle's performance, such as reduced fuel efficiency or sluggish acceleration, it could be due to old or degraded oil. Changing out the oil could fix things and also save you money at the pump.
Follow your manufacturer's recommendations and stay attentive to the signs that indicate it's time to get your oil changed out. For the best results, always come see us at Vann York Chevrolet Buick GMC in High Point, NC for advice and maintenance. We'll make sure your Chevy always performs like you expect.
