What an oil change actually does for your engine
Oil does more than lubricate. It carries away heat, holds contaminants in suspension, and keeps the small passages inside your vehicle's engine clear. Changing it on time is the simplest protection your engine receives.
Why oil wears out
Heat breaks oil down, and the additives that fight acid and sludge are used up as the engine runs. Combustion by-products and tiny metal particles collect in the oil until the filter cannot hold any more. At that point, the oil remains liquid, but it is no longer effective.
Conventional or synthetic
Synthetic oil resists heat and thinning better and stays cleaner for longer, which is why many manufacturers now specify it. Conventional oil is suitable where the engine was designed for it. The wrong grade, whether thick or thin, matters more than the brand.
Short trips are hard on oil
An engine that never gets fully warm collects moisture and fuel in the oil that would otherwise boil off. If most of your driving consists of short hops, follow the interval in the manual for severe use.
What to watch between changes
Check the oil level periodically, especially before a long trip. A little consumption is normal in many engines; however, a sudden change or oil that looks milky should prompt a call to us.
Change your vehicle's oil at intervals that match your driving habits, use the grade specified for your engine, and keep an eye on the level in between changes. You can book an oil change online at Maple Ridge Auto Care, and we will have the right technician and parts ready.