How often should you change your oil?

0
27
How often should you change your oil?

In order for the engine to run smoothly, it needs oil. Some more, some less. In general, every car should have an oil change every year. The oil change usually costs you around 300 francs, depending on the model, the price can also vary greatly. We’ll explain everything you should know about changing oil.

How often should you change your oil

Why is the oil change necessary?

Your car’s engine consists of many moving parts. The engine oil forms a lubricating film that protects against overheating. If this is missing, overheating occurs and engine damage is inevitable.

The engine oil also serves as a cleaning agent. Tiny metal chips can be produced by the work of the motor. The oil filter removes these from circulation and prevents these chips from causing damage to the car. The oil filter, like the oil, will wear out from this hard work and will need to be replaced over time.

Can you change the oil yourself?

If you are familiar with the matter, you can take the oil change into your own hands. However, it is very important to dispose of the drained oil in accordance with the regulations, otherwise, there is a risk of a fine. This is how you do it.

The oil drain screw is located under the oil pan. You should now place a suitable container underneath and then loosen the oil drain screw so that the oil can flow into the container.

You should let the oil drain off completely and then re-fit the oil drain screw correctly.

Open the oil filter housing in the engine compartment.

The oil filter should also be changed when changing the oil. Therefore, you should now remove the oil filter and replace it with a new one.

Now you can fill in the new engine oil. Before you are finished you should check the oil level again. You are now ready to go.

Now you have to dispose of the old engine oil. Improper disposal is polluting and can be a hefty fine. The best thing to do is to go to your local pollutant collection facility and dispose of the used oil in accordance with regulations, so you can continue driving with a clear conscience.

Which oil should I use when changing the oil?

To answer this question, all you need to do is look at your car’s manual. They usually specify exactly which oil is best for your car. In many cases, the manufacturer relies on the engine oil with the abbreviation 5W30, which is particularly suitable for use in Switzerland, as it remains thin enough even at low temperatures to lubricate sufficiently even at sub-zero temperatures.

In addition to the viscosity (5W30), you also have to pay attention to the specifications that the oil must have so that it is compatible with your engine. You can also find this information in the manual for your vehicle. The specifications may differ depending on the manufacturer. You can find more information about viscosity and its properties here.

When is the oil change due?

As a rule, the oil is changed annually. In the case of newer models, the oil change may only be due after 2 years. A so-called long-life oil is usually used in such vehicles.

If your car is lubricated with Longlife oil and gets thirsty before the planned oil change, you have to use oil with the specifications given by the manufacturer. You can find this information in the user manual of your vehicle.

It is best to always follow the information in the maintenance plan, which is usually enclosed with the manufacturer’s manual. There you will find the exact information about the time of an upcoming oil change.

In general, one can say that short-haul drivers have to change the oil earlier than long-haul drivers. Depending on the vehicle type, this factor is weighted differently. Anyone who has their car serviced regularly is definitely on the safe side.

Carry out an oil change yourself or leave it to a professional?

As already mentioned above, you should only change the oil yourself if you are familiar with the matter. Otherwise, you could do more harm than good. Changing the oil is not an expensive proposition. It is better to let a specialist do the work than to lend a hand yourself. It may be cheaper than trying it yourself.

What does the oil change cost me?

An oil change at VW, BMW, Audi, Skoda and Mercedes costs between 200 and 500 francs and can vary depending on the model. Here you can calculate the price of the oil change directly online and book it conveniently online as required.

How often should I change the oil?

This appointment can vary depending on the vehicle. In general, older vehicles (built up to 2000) should be replaced after a maximum of  15,000 km and for vehicles built from 2000 after a maximum of 30,000 km. Since the exact interval differs depending on the vehicle, it is advisable to study the service booklet. In modern vehicles, the service lamp in the speedometer usually provides information.

“Once a year or after 20,000 kilometers” doesn’t mean that you can choose. If one of the values ​​is reached, the oil MUST be changed.

In modern diesel vehicles, in particular, the engine is extremely sensitive to old oil. In such cars, changing the oil should be done too early rather than too late.

Also read: how to get water out of your ear.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here