Today’s vehicles deliver more performance than ever, as new models introduce new features for safety, comfort, and convenience. However, your vehicle is still a complex machine that needs active maintenance. It all starts with routine oil changes and using the right engine oil. Because if the engine isn’t running smoothly, nothing else matters. Maintaining engine oil is easier than you might think!
How Much Is an Oil Change?
The cost of an oil change is dependent on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change. To determine which type of oil is best, your technician will refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and ask you for your personal preference. Some drivers prefer conventional oil, while others opt for fully synthetic, synthetic blends, or high mileage oils. If recommended by your technician, you may use a different brand, as long as the oil matches the viscosity grade and specifications in the owner’s manual. Contact your local Jiffy Lube® for estimated pricing based on your vehicle and the type of oil for your day-to-day driving conditions.
Do Oil Changes Protect Your Engine?
Engine oil is one of the most important fluids inside your vehicle, as it lubricates all the moving parts of the engine and keeps it running smoothly. Oil allows the engine’s components to do their job. It reduces friction, transfers heat, and absorbs combustion byproducts, preventing the engine from overheating. When the oil level drops too low or becomes contaminated, the piston rings can stick, the engine can overheat, or the life of the engine can be shortened. By getting routine oil and filter changes, you’re protecting the vehicle’s most valuable parts.
HOW MUCH OIL DOES MY CAR NEED?
This really depends on what type of vehicle you have. In the past, almost all cars and trucks required five quarts of oil for an oil change. However, with a greater range of engines in modern vehicles, the amount can range from four quarts to ten quarts or more. Ask a Jiffy Lube® trained technician for the right type and amount of oil for your vehicle to improve its performance. They can recommend a high-quality Pennzoil® product that meets the manufacturer’s guidelines.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN MY OIL LIGHT COMES ON?
If the oil maintenance light turns on, this means that your vehicle needs servicing which entails an oil change and possibly a new oil filter. Take your vehicle to a service center with trained technicians, such as your local Jiffy Lube®. Here, the technicians will do more than just change the oil and filters and place a reminder sticker on your windshield. A full courtesy inspection will be performed, which includes checking the vehicle’s battery, fluids, lights, and belts. In addition, they will check and adjust the tire pressure, clean the exterior windows and vacuum the carpets.
HOW LONG DOES AN OIL CHANGE TAKE?
The average oil change usually takes anywhere between 20 to 45 minutes. However, the time varies based on the car size, amount of oil needed, and the ease of access to the vehicle’s oil and filter system. If your vehicle runs on diesel fuel, you will need diesel motor oil with additives, but an oil change should not take up any extra time. To find out an exact time estimate based on your vehicle type, give Jiffy Lube® a call and speak with one of our knowledgeable technicians.
CAN I TOP OFF THE OIL MYSELF?
Oil can be topped off in an emergency, but it is not a substitute for a proper oil change. The old, worn-out oil is still trapped in the system and when it mixes with the new oil, it can’t work as efficiently due to the contamination. A complete oil change is recommended where the old oil is drained through the drain plug located on the underside of your engine and new oil is added to the oil reservoir. Another method has been recently developed which involves a suction method that removes the oil by siphoning it. Whichever method you use, it is essential to remove the old oil and change it as often as recommended by the manufacturer.
Following these recommendations is crucial. So if you’re considering a service center, don’t just ask, “How much doe an oil change cost?” Be sure to ask if their technicians follow the automaker’s guidelines. At Jiffy Lube® we do this every day and our technicians are always eager to help.
