Oil Change Services Brampton

Oil Change Services Brampton

by | Oct 23, 2017 | Blog, oil change, oil change brampton

Oil changes are a regular and critical part of vehicle maintenance. Oil plays an incredibly important role in your car’s performance. Oil keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently, by lubricating the engine to avoid friction from metal scraping on metal.
All oil has a shelf life, and must be changed on a consistent basis to continue to be effective.

How do you know when it is time for oil change?

There are several tell-tale signs that your vehicle is in need ofan oil change. Here a few examples:

  • Color and texture of oil
  • Engine sound
  • Check engine light
  • Low level
  • Time since your last oil change

Color and Texture

When oil is new and useful, it will be a light honey brown color. The oil will become black and viscous when it begins to deteriorate. Once there is debris and other contaminants floating in the oil, it is time for an oil change, and possibly a filter change as well.

Engine Sound

If your oil is working efficiently, your car’s engine should be purring and fairly quiet. Once the oil gets old and dirty, the engine will become louder and may produce grinding and clunking noises.

Check Engine Light

Most cars will have an oil gauge on the dashboard that will let you know when it is time for a check up. If the engine light coming on, may also indicate an issue with the oil. If any of these lights are illuminated on your dashboard, it is a good idea to take your vehicle in for servicing.
oil change

Low Level

You can use the dipstick to check the oil level yourself to ensure there is an appropriate level in the tank. If levels are low, it is a good indication that the oil is too old and is getting burned up more quickly because it is no longer effective.

Last Oil Change

One of the most reliable methods for knowing when to change your oil is by figuring out the last time it was changed. It is recommended to change your oil every 3,000- 5,000 kilometres. Check your owner’s manual for maintenance schedules.

Frequency Factors

How often you get your oil changed, can be determined by 3 basic factors:

  • Maintenance Schedule in Owner’s Manual
  • Driving conditions
  • Environmental conditions

Maintenance Schedule

The most important factor is following recommendations laid out in the owner’s manual. You don’t want to stray too far from the suggested schedule, as there may be conditions set in the manual that will void the warranty if not followed correctly.

Driving Conditions

The conditions you drive in on a daily basis will also be a factor. If your drive in severe conditions, you should be getting your oil changed more frequently. Severe conditions include:

  • Stop-and-go traffic in high temperatures
  • Short drives in freezing temperatures
  • Driving at slow speeds for long distances
  • Driving on dirt, sand, or gravel roads
  • Dusty, muddy, or salty conditions
  • Towing something behind your car, or strapping something heavy to the roof
  • Frequent stops and starts

Environmental Conditions

The climate you live in will also play a role in determining how often your oil should be changed. Extreme cold, especially if only driving for short distances, can cause moisture to build up in the engine and lead to quicker contamination of the oil. Hot temperatures can also be detrimental, even more so in stop-and-go traffic.

Filter Services Brampton

Filter Services Brampton

by | Oct 10, 2017 | Blog, Filter Services, fuel system controls

There are several filters throughout your vehicle that should be changed regularly to maintain performance and preserve value. These filters include:

  • Air Filters
  • Cabin Air Filters
  • Fuel Filters
  • PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) Valve and Filters

Air Filters

The main job of the air filter in your car is to help keep the engine clean. The filter is there to block damaging substances like dirt, dust, leaves and other debris from getting into the engine. Air from outside the vehicle passes through the air filter and into the cylinders of the engine. The air then mixes with the fuel, in order to give your vehicle the power it needs to run.
A dirty or clogged air filter can allow, or already has allowed, contaminants to enter the fuel system. This contamination of the system can have detrimental effects on your vehicle, like:

  • Inefficient fuel economy
  • Decreased engine power
  • Reduced life of the engine
  • Increased harmful emissions

Cabin Air Filters

As you may have guessed, cabin air filters are designed to keep the air inside the cabin of your vehicle clean and breathable. They help guard your lungs and respiratory system against airborne infections and allergens that can be harmful to your health.
More vehicles on the road, as well as longer travel times to and from work, contribute raised levels of noxious gases, bad smells, and dangerous substances you are exposed to on a daily basis.
Consistently changing out old filters for new ones, keeps you breathing clean and healthy air inside your car. This can be very beneficial to people with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. It is also beneficial for your air conditioning system. Less strain on the air conditioner means it will last longer and work more efficiently.

Fuel Filters

The fuel filter is used to block dirt, dust, and other debris from getting into the engine. When you apply pressure to the accelerator in your car, it is the fuel system that regulates the level of power from the engine that is needed for operation. The fuel system controls the movement of air and fuel, ensuring the balance between the two is accurate. The correct combination of fuel and air will make the vehicle go at the desired speed based on how much pressure was put on the gas pedal.
If the fuel filter gets too dirty or gets obstructed, it will compromise the engine’s performance. Replacing the fuel filer regularly keeps your car performing at optimal levels and maintaining good fuel economy.

PCV (Positive Crankcase Valve) and Filters

The PCV valve (also called the emissions valve) and filter work in tandem to return harmful fumes generated by the engine to the combustion chambers. These toxic fumes then get burned again to further reduce their toxicity. The PCV and filter should be changed regularly to prevent wear on the engine and reduce noxious emissions.
filter services

Filter Services Brampton

Valvoline Express Care Brampton has been providing professional automotive services in the Brampton area for over 20 years. They can handle all your filter service needs, as well as any other vehicle maintenance required.