Oil Change Services in Woodside, NY
An oil change is one of the most routine maintenance tasks for a vehicle, but it’s also crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan.
What happens during an oil change?
- Draining the Old Oil: The technician will first lift the vehicle and locate the oil drain plug underneath. They’ll remove the drain plug to allow the old oil to drain out completely.
- Replacing the Oil Filter: While the oil is draining, the technician will remove the old oil filter. The oil filter traps contaminants and debris, preventing them from circulating through the engine. It’s essential to replace the oil filter during every oil change to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
- Inspecting Other Components: While under the vehicle, the technician may perform a visual inspection of other components, such as belts, hoses, and the exhaust system, to check for signs of wear or damage.
- Adding New Oil: Once the old oil has drained completely and the new oil filter is in place, the technician will replace the drain plug and fill the engine with fresh oil. They’ll use the type and viscosity of oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Checking Fluid Levels: In addition to changing the engine oil, the technician may also check and top off other fluid levels, such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
- Inspecting for Leaks: After the oil change is complete, the technician will start the engine and check for any leaks around the oil drain plug and filter.
- Resetting the Oil Change Reminder: If your vehicle is equipped with an oil change reminder system, the technician will reset it to indicate when the next oil change is due.
- Proper Disposal of Old Oil: It’s important to dispose of old oil properly. Most service centers have procedures in place for recycling or disposing of used oil in an environmentally friendly manner.
Why it matters
Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the health and performance of your vehicle’s engine. It’s generally recommended to change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but you should always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals.