When was the last time you considered replacing your engine oil? Perhaps you had it done at your last service – well done you. However if you’ve noticed the engine oil inside your engine is getting dirtier (new oil is more transparent than old, darker oil) then it’s likely due a change. Use our guide to diagnose and then choose the right oil so that you can replace or simply top-up a low engine oil reservoir.
When is it time to change my car engine oil?
Depending on your car’s age and the manufacturer’s recommendation you should change your car’s engine oil between every 7,500 or 10,000 miles. Most car’s will have their engine oil changed as part of the service schedule so check your log book if you can’t remember when the last change was. Another indication the engine oil is not up to scratch is noticing the colour of the engine oil whenever you check your engine oil levels. Clean and new engine oil usually appears a dark yellow and is translucent in colour. As the engine works harder over time the oil changes appearance and gradually gets darker and thicker with the deposits from the engine building up. This is a fairly good indication that your oil needs replacing but you can always check with your local car garage if you’re unsure.
Check manufacturer’s handbook for the correct car engine oil
If you still have a manual or car handbook, always refer to this first before going out to buy replacement engine oil. This is the guaranteed way of finding the correct engine oil for your car and could save you a big headache, especially if you end up filling your car with the wrong engine oil. There should be an indication in the manual of the type of oil which is usually a combination of numbers and letters (e.g. 10w40, 5w30, etc.). Once you’ve got the right oil type you can go to the shops and get the replacement oil.
What oil for my car?
If you’ve lost your car manual or misplaced the handbook, you’re going to struggle to find the right oil for your engine. However help on the internet is out there. To find out the correct engine oil for your car, Mobil 1’s which oil for my engine questionnaire comes in handy. Simply find your make & model of car, or search via registration number and let Mobil 1’s car oil checker do the rest. Whilst this information isn’t 100% accurate and you should always refer to the manufacturer if you’re unsure, this is one of the best engine oil checkers on the internet.
Do I need fully synthetic oil and what are the benefits?
Again, consult your car’s handbook and if it states use fully synthetic then you should. There is an extra cost involved in using fully synthetic oil for your car engine since it’s said to give better engine performance and mileage according to manufacturers. Most high-performance engines will require fully synthetic engine oil, or those with turbo charged parts. Fully synthetic oil is claimed to last longer and doesn’t break-down as fast as standard engine oil, theoretically keeping your engine cleaner for longer. This means that nowadays engines using synthetic oil can go for 7,500 – 10,000 miles without an oil change, compared with conventional engine oil needing replacing between 3,500 – 7,500 miles.
Don’t want to replace the engine oil yourself?
We completely understand that most people don’t want to go through the rigmarole of replacing the car engine oil themselves. It’s a dirty job but someone has to do it. That’s why at MCM Garage we’re always happy to help diagnose and replace your engine oil with the correct type for your vehicle for those living near Bath and Radstock. Why not book your car service appointment with us today and we can get your engine oil replaced quickly, saving you the hassle of doing it yourself. Call us now on 01761 415501