Time for an Oil Change? Why Not Get a Check-Up Too?

Time for an Oil Change? Why Not Get a Check-Up Too?

Every vehicle owner knows, or at least should know, about the importance of regular maintenance for their automobiles.
It is a simple fact that well-maintained vehicles last longer, require less time and money at the mechanic, and preserve more value.
Oil changes are one of the most common types of upkeep needed to keep a car running well. Most car owners get their oil changed fairly consistently, at a bare minimum.
But there are other practices you could be treating your automobile to that will make things better and safer for the driver as well as the vehicle itself.

Other Services to Consider

When bringing your car in for an oil change, there are several other services and checks that should be carried out to make sure your car is in good working order.
Some of the things to keep an eye on are:

  • Change the oil filter
  • Change the air filter
  • Check the fluids
  • Check the engine
  • Tire rotation
  • Check the brakes
  • Check the wipers
  • Rust check

Change the Oil Filter

It is a good practice to get into to have your oil filter changed every time you go in for an oil change. It is acceptable to change the filter every other time, but for optimal results it is recommended to change the filter with every oil change.

Change the Air Filter

Changing the air filter in your engine should be done about once a year. If you do not change the air filter in your vehicle regularly, it just means that your engine has to work that much harder. This can lead to other, bigger problems if left too long.

Check the Fluids

Aside from the oil, there are several other fluids in your car that need regular attention.
Examples of fluids that need to beconsistently changed or topped up are:

  • Radiator fluid
  • Air conditioner fluid
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Transmission fluid
  • Wiper fluid

Consult your driver’s manual to get a better idea of the timeline for how often each fluid should be checked and maintained.

Check the Engine

The engine is obviously a tremendously important part of your vehicle. Without it, you wouldn’t be going anywhere. That is why it is a good idea to have your engine checked by a professional every so often for punctures or other irregularities.
It is much more practical to get a jump on any engine issues before they get out of hand.

Tire Rotation

Tires should be taken care of somewhere between every 3000 and 5000 kms. You can check the owner’s manual to see what is suggested for your particular vehicle.
Consistent tire rotation is important to make sure all tires wear at an even rate, so you get the most out of your tire set.

Check the Brakes

Depending on how much you drive, driving conditions, and the age of your car, you should have your brakes looked at every six months to a year.
Properly functioning brakes are crucial to keeping you and your passengers safe, as well as other drivers on the road.

Check Wipers

Another component of your car that can compromise the safety of you and your passengers is the windshield wipers. Damaged wipers can cause serious vision impairment while driving, leading to accidents and potential injury.

Rust Check

Getting your car inspected for signs of rust is essential to prolonging the life of your vehicle and keeping it running smoothly.
Rust can spread very quickly and do irreversible damage. It is critical to nip it in the bud.

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

For oil changes, check ups, and everything you need to keep your car performing at an optimal level, Valvoline Express Care in Brampton is a perfect one stop solution.
 
 

5 Reasons Not to Neglect Oil Changes

5 Reasons Not to Neglect Oil Changes

Getting regular oil changes for your vehicle may seem like a hassle, but neglecting to have your oil changed can cause serious long-term problems for your car.
Clean oil is necessary to keep your car operating efficiently and safely. Skipping oil changes may not only be bad for your vehicle, but you and your passengers as well.
If you keep putting off oil changes, again and again, it could eventually lead to engine seizure when you are out on the road.
For instance, you may be driving home with your kids in the car and the engine decides to quit on you. Depending on where this seizure occurs, you may be stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Then, there is not only the issue of getting your car towed to a mechanic, but also the massive cost of repairing or replacing the engine.
Regular oil changes can help give you peace of mind, while also preserving the value of your vehicle.

Where can I do dependable and affordable oil change services?

Oil Change Brampton

If your are looking for a reliable automotive service provider for oil changes and vehicle maintenance in Brampton, or the surrounding GTA, then Valvoline Express Care is an enlightened choice.
With well over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, you can anticipate the same excellent and efficient service each time you visit.
You can even access a free coupon for a discount on your next oil change here.
This kind of experience indicates streamlined processes and outstanding results to have you in and out in no time with the great results you are looking for.
One of the areas of specialization at Valvoline Express Care is oil changes. Skipping routine oil changes is not a good idea for many reasons.

5 Reasons Not to Miss Regular Oil Changes

There are all kinds of reasons not to neglect oil changes, some are more compelling than others.
Here are 5 of the most important reasons not to skip an oil change:

  • Oil goes bad
  • Engine damage
  • Poor gas mileage
  • Regular maintenance is necessary
  • Hefty mechanic bills

Oil Goes Bad

Just like milk goes bad when it’s left in the fridge too long, oil also goes bad when it’s left in the tank too long.
The quality and viscosity of the oil in your car will deteriorate over time. When this happens, the oil no longer has the lubricating properties needed to prevent friction in the engine.
As this friction increases, so does damage to your engine.

Engine Damage

Friction caused by metal scraping against metal is a serious concern for an engine that is not properly lubricated.
Increased friction can even cause the engine to overheat and seize up entirely.

Poor Gas Mileage

Neglecting oil changes can eventually compromise the overall performance of your vehicle. If the oil in your engine is old and dirty, your engine has to work that much harder.
A harder working engine means you are spending more money on fuel to make it run.

Part of Regular Maintenance

Oil changes are part of routine maintenance that is required to keep your car running at an optimal level.
You may think you are saving money by avoiding paying for routine maintenance. This may be true in the short-term, but eventually it will end up costing you so much more.

Hefty Mechanic Bills

Do you have any idea how much it costs to replace a car engine? A lot. Of course, it depends on the make and model of your vehicle, but I can guarantee you it will not be cheap.
Why not avoid the nightmare of serious engine damage by keeping up with routine oil changes?

Essential Information About Oil Changes

Essential Information About Oil Changes

If you own a vehicle you are no doubt aware of the importance of oil changes and other types of regular maintenance that is necessary to keep your car operating effectively.
After all, without oil your car will not run. As time passes, the longer you leave the oil unchanged, the dirtier it gets. The grimier your oil gets, the less effective it becomes. If left long enough it can do serious damage to your engine. In many instances that get that far, the engine damage is irreparable. Purchasing a new engine is not a cheap venture, so keeping with consistent oil changes is key to avoiding huge repair bills.
An oil change is likely the most widely recognized and accepted aspect of regular maintenance that car owners are aware of and practice regularly.
But, there are many little-known facts about oil changes that the average car owner may not know about.

Additional Oil Facts

Most drivers are aware of the basic function of oil in a car engine. The oil is there to lubricate the metal components of the engine, to prevent them from grinding and causing excessive friction. Old, contaminated oil does not offer sufficient lubrication, which can result in over heating and engine deterioration.
Some other useful information about oil changes might involve:

  • Oil filters
  • Disposing of old oil
  • Extras
  • Owner’s manual
  • Oil level checks
  • Time required

Oil Filters

When you have your oil changed by a professional automotive technician, you should also have the oil filter changed as well. This may or may not be included in a basic oil change.
Inquire with your automotive service representative for more details.
Also, the drainplug on the oil pan will likely need to be changed from time to time as eventually the threads on the plug will wear down or become stripped over time.

Disposing of Used Oil

If you always have your oil changed at an auto centre, then you may not be aware of what happens to your used oil.
You obviously can’t just pour it on the ground or down a drain because it will mix in with the local water supply. Your old, used oil needs to be disposed of in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
That is one definite perk of having your oil changed by a professional, rather than doing it on your own.

Extras

Another advantage of enlisting the services of automotive experts is all the extras that can be added to a routine oil change.
For example, when you go in for an oil change you can also have:

  • Fluids checked
  • Tires checked for pressure and wear
  • Brakes checked
  • Rust check
  • Emissions test
  • Battery check
  • Wiper check
  • Windshield check
  • Fuel system check
  • And more…..

Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual for your vehicle can be used as a very useful guide for regularly scheduled maintenance.
The owner’s manual will provide helpful suggestions and recommendations about how often things like oil changes, and other services, should be carried out.

 Oil Level Checks

You can perform routine checks on your own to make sure the oil in your engine is at an appropriate level.
Most experts recommend that oil changes should be done every 3000 – 5000 kms. However, driving conditions and other factors may affect those numbers.
Checking the oil level in your engine with the dipstick provided will give a good indication if the oil level is adequate.
It is recommended to do this check before starting your car, or at least 10 minutes after turning it off.

Time Required

A typical oil change done by a professional will take somewhere between 30 and 90 minutes. It will take much longer if you do it yourself.

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

For outstanding oil change services in Brampton, and the surrounding area, stop in at Valvoline Express Care.
Valvoline Express Care has been providing quality automotive service for over 20 years.

Coupons for a Discount on Your Next Oil Change

Coupons for a Discount on Your Next Oil Change

Having the oil changed regularly in your vehicle is just one of the necessary requirements to keep your car in good working order.
You are going to have to do it anyway, so why not take advantage of a discount when it is offered?

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

Valvoline Express Care is an automotive service specialist in Brampton, that can take of all your car maintenance and repair needs.
With well over 20 years experience serving customers in the GTA, you can expect the same excellent service and results every time you visit.
Aside from the premium service, there are also a collection of quality products to choose from for your vehicle, like a wide selection of motor oils, filters, wipers, and other accessories.
You don’t even need to make an appointment first, just roll in and the qualified technicians will be at your service.
Valvoline Express Care is located in Brampton, but services car owners from the entire surrounding area, including Mississauga, Toronto, Vaughan, Oakville, Etobicoke, etc.

Discount Coupons

There are also coupons available at Valvoline Express Care that can be used for discounts on the many services offered.
To qualify for the discount, you simply need to download the app for immediate access.
The expert technicians at Valvoline can also help assess what services would be most beneficial for your automobile to keep it functioning at a high level.
Regular maintenance not only improves vehicle performance, but it also helps retain the value of your car for when it comes time to sell it.
Oil changes are a great example of how and why consistent maintenance is recommended. For the best oil change services in Brampton, Valvoline Express Care is your spot.

How Often are Oil Changes Needed?

Although the exact timeline does vary from vehicle to vehicle, the general consensus is that your oil should be changed every 5000 kms or so. Different vehicles will have different recommendations and the conditions you drive in on a daily basis are also a factor.
Your owner’s manual will have all the details about regular scheduled maintenance.

Why are Oil Changes Needed?

If you don’t care about your car’s performance, holding its value, and avoiding large mechanic repair bills, then you probably don’t worry to much changing the oil.
However, if you do want your car to last longer and keep its value, then consistent oil changes are a must.
A few of the most important reasons to change your oil on a regular basis are:

  • Lubrication for the engine
  • Reduces engine wear and tear
  • Prevents over-heating
  • Better fuel economy
  • Longevity

Lubrication

Car engines consist of an intricate network of moving parts. All these parts will inevitably rub against each other creating heat and friction. Oil helps lubricate these components to reduce friction and keep the engine running smoothly.

Wear and Tear

As mentioned above, without proper lubrication the components in the engine would deteriorate quickly and significantly.
Also, as time passes oil starts to become contaminated with dirt and sludge. This can cause corrosion and engine breakdown.

Preventing Over-Heating

Old, dirty oil does not provide the lubrication needed to prevent excessive friction for the engine components.
Too much friction can create extreme heat in the engine and can damage the components. This makes the engine work much harder than necessary. If this continues for a prolonged period of time, you are looking at serious damage that is costly to repair.

Fuel Economy

Less friction means a more streamlined ride, which can improve your gas mileage considerably.

Longevity

New cars are expensive. Avoid having to purchase a new vehicle due to neglect for the one you’ve got.
Regular maintenance equals increased longevity and decreased spending for big ticket items.

Boost Auto Longevity with Consistent Oil Changes

Boost Auto Longevity with Consistent Oil Changes

Car owners are constantly reminded of how important it is to have regularly scheduled maintenance performed on their vehicles. There are lots of compelling arguments to back up and support this way of thinking.
But is it really true? Are upkeep tasks, like changing oil, absolutely necessary for the health of your vehicle?
Of course, it is up to every vehicle owner to decide for themselves about the importance of regular maintenance, and if consistent oil changes really help the performance and longevity of your car.
Here are some persuasive arguments to make sure you don’t miss recommended auto services, at the intervals they are suggested in the owner’s manual.
Every car is different, much like their owners and the conditions they drive in. Most auto experts would agree that car oil changes should occur roughly every 3000 – 5000 kms. This will vary depending on make and model of your vehicle, as well as the environmental circumstances your car is usually exposed to.
Valvoline Oil Change Brampton
For car owners in Brampton, and the surrounding area like Mississauga, Toronto, Vaughan, Caledon, etc., the best thing you can for your vehicle is to bring it in to Valvoline Express Care for regular services and maintenance.
The expert technicians at Valvoline Express Care can perform a wide variety of services on your car to keep it operating at maximum efficiency.
Bring your car in for an oil change, and get a routine check up to make sure everything is in working order.
You can even use coupons to get discounts on oil changes and other services by downloading the app.
How to Boost Vehicle Longevity with Routine Oil Changes
There are several strong reasons to suggest that consistent oil changes increase the life of your car.
A few of those arguments are:

  • Keeps the engine cool
  • Flushes out contaminants and sludge
  • Improves fuel economy
  • It provides necessary lubrication for the engine
  • Preserves vehicle value

Keeps the Engine Cool
An over heating engine can spell all kinds of trouble for you and your automobile. If the engine is over heating, that means it is working too hard. This can result is serious damage to the engine itself. Possibly even irreparable damage.
An engine typically over heats when there is excess friction from the engine’s metal components. Clean oil provides the necessary lubrication to prevent over heating.
Flushes Out Contaminants and Sludge
If you let your oil go long enough without being changed, bad things begin to happen in the engine. Old oil will start to accumulate a build up of dirt, debris, and sludge in your engine. These deposits are obviously not good for the engine, negatively affecting its performance.
An oil change flushes out this dirt and sludge to keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
Improves Fuel Economy
A cleaner engine makes for a more sleek and streamlined ride, which improves your gas mileage.
Any money that you spend on an oil change, you will end up saving in gas and other unnecessary mechanic bills.
Looking at it form the other side, dirty oil makes your engine work harder. If your engine is working harder, it is using more fuel.
Oil Provides Essential Engine Lubrication
Without oil, the steel components in the engine would be continually grinding and scraping against each other. This will not only cause the engine to over heat, but will also severely damage its parts.
The proper lubrication for your engine will definitely cut down on wear and tear and boost the longevity of your car.
Preserving Value
Regular oil changes can help preserve the value of your vehicle in several ways.
Oil changes help to increase the resale value for your car by:

  • Lubricating the engine
  • Protecting the engine from over heating
  • Preventing engine damage or seizure
  • Flushing out destructive contaminants

Increasing the longevity so don’t have to purchase a new vehicle as frequently

Essential Information About Oil Changes

3 Good Indicators It’s Time for an Oil Change

As essential part of effective car maintenance, oil needs to be changed on a regularly basis to keep your vehicle running smoothly and to avoid hefty mechanic bills.
Whether it is lots of short trips, or a tendency for longer excursions that make up your regular driving routines, the result is the same. Your oil must be changed consistently to prevent engine damage or worse.
The general recommendation is the oil should be changed every 6 months, or every 5000 kms. However, even you if you have not accumulated 5000 kms over the last 6 months, an oil change is still suggested for optimal performance.

Oil Change Brampton

For quick, efficient, and affordable oil change service, Valvoline Express Care in Brampton is an ideal solution.
With a wide range of premium oils to choose from, keep your engine well-lubricated and deposit free with the help of the experts at Valvoline.
Over time, dirt and debris build up as the oil starts to get dirty and ineffective. Clean oil takes the stress off your engine, allowing it to function properly.

3 Indictors That You Need an Oil Change

Aside from the 6 month and 5000 kms measures, there are other factors that can tell you it is time to change your oil.
3 helpful signs are:

  • Oil has become black and chunky
  • Noisier engine
  • You don’t remember the last time your oil was changed

Discoloration and Texture

Once the oil starts to get darker in color and you are able to see chunks of grit and dirt in it, it is time for a change. When you see the oil begin to take on these properties, it should be changed as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more potential damage to your engine. The filter can become clogged, compromising performance.
Clean oil is amber in color, and your dipstick should indicate a full tank.

Noisy Engine

Dirty oil can also have the effect of making your engine run louder. Not only is this annoying to listen to, it is also hard on the engine.
The main function of oil is to lubricate the engine. If it is not longer doing its job, the problem will become audible. Insufficient lubrication causes the metal components of the engine to grind against each other, and possibly break down. So, if you are hearing strange noises coming from under the hood, it likely means the engine is being overheated and probably damaged.
Valvoline Express Care Brampton can take care of this issue with speed and skill.

Last Oil Change

Can’t remember the last time you had your oil changed? Well, that likely means it is time for an oil swap. The oil change technicians at Valvoline Express Care can change your oil while checking your vehicle for any problems.

Benefits of an Oil Change in Brampton at Valvoline Express Care

There are many advantages to having your oil changed by an automotive expert.
Benefits include:

  • Preventing engine friction
  • Reduce deposits of sludge and debris
  • Prevent overheating
  • Protects and prolongs engine life
  • Protects the warranty

Stop by Valvoline Express Care today for all your automotive needs. No appointment necessary!