Beginner’s Guide to Oil Changes in Louisville, KY

Posted on January 1, 2016 by Douglas Addington

For first-time car owners, the care and maintenance of your vehicle can seem complex. With so many details and dates to remember, it can be hard to recall whether you should get your tires rotated or your oil changed. Little by little, as you get the hang of things, it will become easier to be more in tune with your car. Until then, it’s important to know the basics.

Having your car’s oil changed is one of the most important steps you can take when caring for your vehicle. To learn more about the basics of this key maintenance step, read more about oil changes in Louisville, KY below.

Understanding an oil change

Before you schedule an oil change, it’s beneficial to know what your mechanic will do to your car during the appointment. When you bring your car to an auto shop for an oil change, the mechanic will drain all of the old oil from your car and pour in new motor oil as a replacement. The mechanic may also replace the filter that the oil passes through. The process can be completed by a professional in less than an hour, and is a very standard procedure that all cars need.

Why cars need oil changes

Vehicles need regular oil changes because motor oil is the one factor that allows all parts of your car’s engine to function properly. When you start your car, your engine runs with the help of parts that move and brush against each other. Oil comes into play because it acts as a lubricant for the engine’s parts, enabling them to move properly while simultaneously reducing the risk of overheating.

After a period of time, the oil becomes less efficient because it is worn down by the hot temperatures in your engine. Old oil will also become muddy with dirt and grime. When you forget to replace your car’s oil, parts of its engine are left to grind against each other. This means your car can eventually overheat or a part of its engine may break down.

When to change your car’s oil

Oil changes in Louisville, KY should be scheduled regularly with your local auto shop. Different drivers have varying philosophies on how frequently oil should be changed, but it’s up to each car owner to determine what’s best for their unique situation. How often you need to get your car’s oil changed will depend on the age of its engine, how far you drive every day and even the types of roads on which you’re driving.

In most cases, it’s safe to assume that your car should have its oil changed once every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, it’s important to talk to your mechanic about when is the most appropriate time to schedule your car’s next appointment.

If you think it may be time for your car to undergo an oil change, or if you’d like to know more about maintaining your vehicle, contact the experts at St. Matthews Imports – Auto Repair & Service today.