An Oil Change Q & A

Whether you’re a new driver or have owned your car for years, you may have wondered at one point or another why an oil change is essential to your car’s ongoing maintenance. Auto Specialty of Lafayette hopes to answer your questions and help you keep your car in good shape.

Why should I have my oil changed?

Oil is essential to keep your car running smoothly. HowStuffWorks says that “Oil is an essential lubricant in your engine. It lets metal press against metal without damage.” Changing your oil helps keep your car operating well and helps you get the most out of your gas mileage. 

How often should I change my oil?

Experts don’t always agree on this point. Many professional auto service companies recommend getting an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, according to Edmunds, newer vehicles may be able to go longer without needing an oil change. Be sure to talk to your auto repair company and check your car manual to determine a good oil-change schedule for your vehicle.

What happens during an oil change?

During an oil change, whether you do it yourself or go to an auto repair shop, a few essential things happen:

• Your car’s used oil is drained. Auto repair shops know how to do this quickly and have the resources to dispose of the used oil properly.
• Your vehicle’s oil filter is replaced. Each time you have an oil change, you also need to change your oil filter. The filter helps keep dirt out of the oil.
• Your car gets an all-points inspection. Many auto service companies do a vehicle inspection as part of the oil change service. They may look at your washer fluid, tire pressure, engine fluid, taillights, and so on.

If you have questions about getting an oil change or need to schedule an oil change for your vehicle, contact Auto Specialty of Lafayette by calling (765) 477-7300. Auto Specialty has more than 30 years’ experience serving the Lafayette area. In addition to oil changes, we also do auto repair, brake repair, car diagnostic, suspension, and more.