It’s Wednesday afternoon, and it’s time for your weekly grocery shopping. You unlock your car door, get in the driver’s seat, and the oil light begins to flicker once you turn the engine on. What should you do now?
First, relax. The light shows you that the engine system is working just fine and calling for your attention. It shows that the engine system detects how old your engine oil is depending on the mileage and it is telling you that it’s time to replace the oil.
Depending on your car, there may be an oil change dashboard light and a different light for indicating the engine oil pressure. The oil change light is the most frequently seen. Most of the dashboard lights will display for a few seconds on ignition. Then they go off.
If any of the lights remain on after starting the car, other parts may need your attention. For instance, if the change oil light stays on after starting, it is time to change both the engine oil and the oil filter in your car.
Engine Oil
The engine oil in your car and the oil filter is changed periodically during minor car service. Other things, such as the air filter and radiator coolant, are also changed.
Most cars are scheduled for service around the 5000 to 8000 km mark after the last one. While your engine oil can go further, especially in newer models, when the change oil light comes on, it is time to do something about it.
The only way to clear it is to change the engine oil and the oil filter. You can actually do it yourself or go to your favourite service station or bring it to the experts at Valvoline Brampton for service. You can also save with oil change coupons from Valvoline Brampton.
Oil Pressure
The oil pressure light indicates a decrease in engine oil pressure. Similarly, the oil pressure light should be attended to as soon as possible. Acting quickly prevents damage to your engine. This is caused by additional friction in moving parts and excess heat in the engine block.
How Do You Deal These With Dashboard Lights?
The first step is to get your vehicle off the road. Pull to the side in a safe place and switch off the car. Unlock and open the hood.
Then, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. The dipstick has two indicators on it for ‘Full’ and ‘Low.’ If the oil does not reach the spot marked ‘Full’ on the dipstick, it is low. Inspect the engine area more carefully for signs of oil leakage.
You may need to consult a professional to service your car if indeed, you notice external oil leakage. The issue may be related to worn-out seals in the oil system.
Change The Engine Oil
Find the right type of oil for your car and fill it up. Measure again with the dipstick to ensure the oil reaches the ‘Full’ level. Start the car’s engine and allow it to idle for a short while. The change oil light should disappear.
Reset The Dashboard Light
Once the oil change light is gone, reset the system to restart the countdown again. Do this manually through the instrument panel. If something seems amiss or if you do not know how to do this, contact Valvoline Brampton for help.
Always Pay Attention To The Dashboard Lights
Servicing your car regularly, including oil and filter changes, ensures your car gives you the best performance for a longer period. It is also required in order to continue receiving warranty support from your vehicle manufacturer.
Valvoline Brampton’s experts will help you select the appropriate motor oil for your car. This is based on your car manufacturer’s preferences. They will also recommend a schedule for an oil change. Having a reminder is a great way to ensure you don’t skip an important car service date.
Dashboard lights serve as a notification of what is happening in your car engine. Act quickly anytime you see the change oil light in your car. Pull into the nearest Valvoline Brampton’s and avoid getting stuck down the road.
The lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine is the oil. The easiest way to ensure you avoid engine failure and the cost of repair is to ensure you have enough oil. Many drivers lack the know-how to check the level of oil. If you need the skills, this is the right place for you.
After all, Valvoline Brampton services various vehicles daily with Valvoline Brampton Signature Oil Change Service.
Bear in mind: We are giving general tips. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations manual for your vehicle type on how to check the oil in the car.
The make and model of your vehicle determine how you check the oil in a car. The new vehicles have digital dashboard monitors and allow drivers to be aware of the oil level. However, if you consider a manual check, below are steps to follow:
Get a paper towel or rag on your hands. Checking oil levels can turn out to be messy.
Park the car on level ground.
Ensure the engine is off and cold to avoid burning yourself. Ensure you confirm with the owner’s manual for your type of vehicle since some manufacturers recommend checking oil levels when the engine is warm.
Locate your oil dipstick by opening the hood. It is marked yellow or orange.
Remove the dipstick from the engine and wipe the oil.
Put the dipstick in its previous position and then pull it again.
Study the dipstick. It can have either of these indications:
– Dual pinholes – L and H letters (low and high) – MIN and MAX words – Cross-Hatching area (the engine oil level is okay if the top of the oil is on the crosshatched area) – More oil needs to be added if the oil level is low.
What If You Need Oil?
You may discover it’s time to add oil, whether it’s your dipstick reading low or an alert from a digital dashboard monitor. Ensure you use the oil grade recommended by the manufacturer.
In case you are uncertain or can’t find your vehicle’s manual, visit the Valvoline Brampton service center and a technician can give you the information.
Now Let’s Top Up the Oil
To avoid spills, ensure you have a funnel handy.
– Pull out the oil filler cap and add oil. It is on the top of the engine and marked clearly. – Attentively add oil bit by bit as it can damage your engine by overfilling. – First, add around half a quart. – Wait a little bit and check the dipstick. – In case the level of oil is still beneath, add the remaining ounces. – Put back the oil filler cap and that’s it!
The oil levels check-up should be done regularly. It should be part of your vehicle care routine and after very filling.
What If DIY Isn’t Your Thing?
Valvoline Brampton has your back if you don’t want to check the oil levels. Take your car to your local Valvoline Brampton shop and you will find a competent technician who will:
– Inspect the oil level – Point out your options – Inquire about your conditions of driving and describe the best motor oil depending on your driving routine. – Assist you to determine if you require to change the oil completely or do a top-off.
Have You Heard Yet?
With every Valvoline Brampton Signature Service Oil Change, you get the appreciative fluid top-off service in between visits for vital fluids. Consider stopping at your nearest Valvoline Oil Change Brampton Signature Service for top-quality services.
To ensure you don’t fall into these problems, stick to your schedule for changing oil. Use your owner’s manual to check the recommendations given by the manufacturer of your vehicle’s specific type to see how often you should change the oil.
Valvoline Brampton provides vehicle maintenance services for all makes and models. For specific services, visit https://valvolineexpresscare.ca/ or check with your local Valvoline Brampton service center.
Is it safe to mix oil during an oil change? If this is your question, then this is the most suitable place to find credible answers. This is because Valvoline Brampton includes professionally trained technicians who can assist you, as a motorist, to understand which motor oil is appropriate to use on your vehicle.
Without further ado, let’s get right into it.
Mixing Synthetic and Regular Oil
Although mixing these oils regularly is not advised, it is still possible to mix them whenever you desire to top it off until you check in for your scheduled maintenance.
It is also perceived that mixing motor oil will not harm your engine as long as the weight or viscosity is recommended in the manual.
Disadvantages Of Mixing Motor Oil
Unfortunately, mixing regular oil with a synthetic one is considered a short-term fix, in case you have to top off the oil to keep moving. Moreover, synthetic oils are costly, and mixing them with regular oil may result in a loss of money as the oil’s functions are diluted.
For a better understanding, you need to ask yourself this question – how does motor oil work?
Motor oil is designed to decrease friction and avoid overheating of various components. This happens when the oil goes around the motor, thereby lubricating any moving areas. Valvoline allows the motor to work smoothly, and the oil will filter out and eradicate contaminants and deposits.
Therefore, adding regular oil to synthetic oil consistently may dilute its benefits, thus resulting in engine failure.
The Basic Types Of Motor Oil
According to Valvoline Brampton, motor oils are divided into four main categories. Check them out below:
Conventional or Regular Oil
Being cheaper than synthetic oil by 10%, this motor is perfect for people with low budgets. Moreover, it is perfect for older cars with less than 75,000 miles or vehicles with simple designs of the engine.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is more complex than regular oil, mainly because it is chemically modified to form uniform shapes and sizes of the existing molecules. Moreover, since synthetic oil is created with additives to encourage use in extreme temperatures, it is suitable to replace it with petroleum-refined oils.
High-Mileage Oil
Any vehicle with 75,000+ miles is ideal for using this oil since it helps decrease leakage and overheating.
Synthetic Blend Motor Oil
This is a blend of synthetic and regular oils, which is oxidation-resistant and suitable for use during wet or cold conditions.
Now that you understand the basic types of motor oils, it is clear that making a mixture of them will not increase the engine’s efficiency or accomplishments, and the same theory applies to the performance of the oil.
Switching and Mixing Motor Oils
It is also possible to mix oil brands without bringing destruction to your engine as long as the weight or viscosity is highlighted in the manual.
Furthermore, you can also replace the use of regular oil with synthetic oil without having to mix them. Again, ensure you use the recommended weight or viscosity in the manual. But if you do not have access to your manual, you can always ask for assistance from Valvolive Brampton.
In addition, to help maintain safety, you can acquire more information from a skilled technician before changing the oil. Some of the information will help you to:
Safely remove and eradicate old oil.
Ensure you replace the oil with the right one.
Safely eradicate a dirty or contaminated oil filter before applying a new and clean one.
Use essential fluids like washer fluid, transmission, and more.
Vacuum the inside of your vehicle and cleanse the exterior windows.
Conclusion
Even if it is possible to mix motor oil, it is recommended not to become habituated to it. Moreover, when you choose to use synthetic oil alone, it is believed that you may never go back and may later cause issues in case your budget decreases.
The technological advancements in automotive industries have made it possible for one to travel long distances without the need to change oil frequently.
However, this will be based on a few factors. Check them out below:
1. What is the model of your car?
The type of car you use can affect how long you can stay before performing an oil change since every model has diverse requirements. Normally, the period is found in the vehicle’s manual, or you can ask for help from Valvolive Brampton technicians in case you lost or misplaced it.
2. What is your style of driving?
Some people ignore the fact that their style of driving can affect motor oil changes mainly due to a lack of knowledge in recognizing the difference between normal driving and severe driving. For normal driving, the change interval may be around 5,000 more depending on the model of your vehicle and while severe driving requires an oil change after only 3,000 miles. This may also vary depending on the type of oil used.
In addition, if you frequently get stuck in traffic and use your car each day to perform numerous rapid errands, it may result in more oil changes.
3. What is the age of your car?
Since most of today’s vehicles include numerous advancements in technology, it is logical to experience more oil changes for older vehicles. Moreover, if you have had your car for a longer period, the same result will appear due to wear and tear.
How Long Your Vehicle Will Run Over an Oil Change
If you are thinking about how many miles you can go without an oil change, then you will be disappointed to know that taking numerous miles without an oil change can lead to various damages including, engine harm, corrosion, leakage, overheating, and accumulation of sludge.
Now, let’s assume that you want to save some money or you have no time to perform oil changes. From the above effects, you risk experiencing various damages, thereby making you lose even more cash and time.
Using motor oil is essential since it helps maintain the state of your vehicle and keep it in good shape for a long period. This is possible since motor oil decreases friction, maintains a cool and clean engine, and lubricates moving areas.
Oil Indicator Lights and Messages
In most cases, the oil Indicator light turns on due to decreased levels of oil pressure, which can easily cause harm to the engine. Therefore, it is recommended to get an oil change sooner, mostly before reaching 100 miles after the light has been illuminated.
However, this does not mean that you should always wait for the indicator lights/messages to turn on so that you can have an oil change. Instead, you should strictly observe the manufacturer’s manual which provides you with the appropriate time to change the oil.
Importance Of Performing Oil Changes On Time
Changing your vehicle’s oil takes only 20-45 minutes so this should not be a big hassle for you. Moreover, it is recommended that you inspect the oil at least every month to check for any oil leakages or burning.
The following are some of the benefits of changing your oil sooner:
Maintains a clean engine since dirt, debris, and sludge can accumulate and cause harm.
Provides good gas mileage by decreasing friction and making the engine operate effectively.
Protects the environment by preventing harmful hydrocarbon emissions.
Protects engine parts, thereby enhancing their performance.
Improves the lifespan of your engine.
Conclusion
To allow your vehicle to run longer without resulting in frequent issues, it is advised to perform regular maintenance procedures, which include performing oil changes whenever required. Moreover, you can inquire from Valvolive technicians who will help inspect and provide maintenance service for smooth driving.
Recently, people have become more familiar with hybrid vehicles. Even though most of them don’t know how exactly a hybrid vehicle works, they are aware that these vehicles are better for the environment compared to those that run on internal combustion engines.
It was in 1999 when the first mass production of hybrid vehicles occurred in the US. Though these vehicles still have a long way to go before it replaces non-hybrid vehicles, their benefits cannot be ignored.
How hybrid vehicles work and why they’re efficient
Hybrid vehicles use two different propulsion energy sources. These are electric and internal combustion systems. There is less dependency on fossil fuels because they utilize electricity. Therefore, there are more miles for every gallon of performance and fewer emissions.
An internal combustion engine, a battery pack, and an electric motor are the units used by new hybrid vehicles.
Put simply, hybrid vehicles work with their electric motor and combustion engine. Aside from storing energy, the engine’s battery gets its energy through the internal combustion engine and regenerative braking.
This additional power coming from the motor makes it possible to reduce the engine idling when the car doesn’t work and operate auxiliary loads. Because of these, hybrid vehicles can save you more on fuel without compromising performance.
The importance of using the appropriate hybrid oil
The hybrid engine usually operates at a lower temperature because the electric motor reduces the work from the IC (internal combustion) engine. So, it doesn’t reach the peak operating temperature needed to boil the water that condenses in the engine oil. Hybrid engines typically can’t lubricate the engine parts properly since the oil in hybrid engines works at lower temperatures.
There’s less wear and tear when you utilize the appropriate hybrid oil when getting an oil change for your vehicle. It also extends your engine’s lifespan and lessens sludge formation.
Engine oil or regular Oil: What to use for your hybrid vehicles
There’s a tiny difference between an engine and regular oil. Though the IC engines in hybrid vehicles have traditional combustion engines, you can use regular oils.
Manufacturers give the same specs for regular and hybrid oil. So, most oils that are approved for vehicles with IC engines are also good for hybrid vehicles. But there’s a small difference that can be significant as time passes by.
The combustion engines of hybrid cars don’t operate 24/7 since the electric motor provides a large amount of power and the temperature of the IC engine to work is often lower compared to traditional vehicles. There can be a lot of engine cold starts when the IC to the electric motor switches constantly. This is the primary reason why it’s best to utilize hybrid oils when doing oil changes.
The ideal time to perform an oil change for hybrid vehicles
Similar to traditional vehicles that utilize internal combustion engines, hybrid vehicles need consistent and regular hybrid oil changes. But the oil change isn’t as frequent as the oil change with vehicles that have IC engines. This is truer when you drive your hybrid vehicle at a low speed in your area.
Hybrid vehicles don’t put much pressure on the IC engines when moving at lower speeds. The electric engine is the one that does most of the heavy lifting. When the hybrid vehicle moves at higher speeds, this is the time the IC engine is at full power.
But it’s still best to change the hybrid oil as per the owner’s manual. This is the same as traditional vehicles. This is to ensure the good health of your hybrid car’s engine.
Conclusion
Finally, you understand the option you have for hybrid car lubricants. Hybrid vehicles have gained more and more attention in the past years.
Since there’s a difference in the engine between conventional and hybrid vehicles, there’s also a difference in the lubricants used. It’s important to understand these since it affects the performance and other characteristics of your vehicle.
It doesn’t matter what kind of vehicle you have since engine or motor oil is vital in keeping the engine working. It also ensures that your vehicle is in good condition.
Since not all engine oils have the same properties, it’s important that you know how to pick the one your car needs. Now, you might be wondering what would happen if you poured the wrong oil into your engine.
Continue reading to understand better how to get the right oil when do get the next oil change. What could happen if you choose the wrong one, and how can you deal with it?
What Engine Oil Does
Engine oil is a special lubricant for various engine parts. It reduces friction, ensures maximum performance, lessens corrosion, protects your vehicle from wear and tear, and absorbs heat.
Because of the many things engine oil can do, it can prolong your engine’s life, help you save money from repair costs, and lessen fuel use. But each engine has special features. That means you can’t use just any engine oil for it. Picking inappropriate motor oil can result in serious damage to your car.
The Type of Engine Oil Needed
There are certain things you have to check when you pick the right engine oil. Some of these are specifications, type of oil, and viscosity grade for your vehicle, standards, and driving environment.
It’s recommended to go through your vehicle’s manual and check the manufacturer’s recommendation if you’re unsure about the type of oil your car needs.
What Happens When You Pick the Wrong Engine Oil
The safest way to prevent choosing inappropriate engine oil is to use the one recommended in your vehicle owner’s manual. That’s because all types of engine oils are different. If you accidentally pour the wrong engine oil, here are some of the signs you might see right away:
Burning Oil Smell
When you start your engine, the smell is one of the first things you’ll notice. Engine oils have reduced viscosity grades when the weather is hot outside. This results in a thinner consistency and losing stability. When it’s not stable, it can’t lubricate the engine properly. As a result, there’s more friction in the parts, overheating of the engine, and emitting a burning odour.
Having Difficulty Starting the Car When It’s Cold
Engine oils with low viscosity are not good in hot weather, and engine oils with high viscosity are not good in cold weather. That’s because viscous oils become thicker in cold weather which stops the flow and prevents the engine from getting lubricated. You’ll find yourself having a hard time starting the engine, or you hear the noise in the engine when it starts working.
Leaking Oil
When you park, you might see oil leaking below if your car has high mileage and uses synthetic oil or an older model that utilises mineral engine oils. That’s because the flow of synthetic oil can get through tight areas such as gaskets and leaks.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
When you use engine oil that’s of higher viscosity than what’s recommended for your vehicle, it can result in reduced fuel economy. Viscous oils make the moving parts of your engine, such as pistons, more resistant. So, your engine has to burn more fuel to reduce the resistance.
What to Do to Resolve This
Even though you can still drive your car with the wrong engine oil, you’re putting it and its parts at risk for damage if you continue doing so. As a result, it becomes less dependable and has a shorter lifespan. It’s best to visit the nearest oil change shop so they can make sure there is no further damage to the vehicle.
Conclusion
It is important to choose the correct engine oil to maximise your vehicle’s performance, make sure it works properly, and prolong its lifespan. What you need to remember is to follow the recommended oil by your car manufacturer and get a professional oil change shop to change the oil in your vehicle.
