What is an engine oil change?
An engine oil change is the process of removing the old, contaminated engine oil from a vehicle's engine and replacing it with fresh oil to maintain optimal engine performance and longevity. This process typically includes replacing the oil filter as well.
What does an oil change involve?
Here's an overview of how an oil change is done by a mechanic:
* The mechanic first drains the old engine oil from the vehicle's engine, usually through a drain plug located at the bottom of the oil pan.
* Next, the old oil filter is removed. This may involve unscrewing the filter by hand or with a wrench, depending on its location.
* The mechanic then installs a new oil filter, ensuring it is properly seated and secured to prevent leaks.
* Fresh engine oil is added to the engine to the specified level, which involves pouring the new oil into the engine's oil filler neck.
* The mechanic checks for leaks and verifies the correct oil level using the dipstick. Adjustments are made as necessary to ensure the oil reaches the "full" mark on the dipstick.
* This process is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity, and it's generally recommended that a professional mechanic perform it to ensure proper handling and disposal of old oil and filters.
When do I need an oil change for my car?
It is recommended you get an oil change for your car typically every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your vehicle's make, model, and the type of oil used.
It’s best to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations. Generally speaking, if you carry out your annual maintenance as required, the oil filter and oil will be changed based on the service type.
Additionally, if you notice your engine running louder than usual, reduced fuel efficiency, or oil changes in color to a darker, dirtier appearance, it might be time for an oil change sooner.
What is an oil change vs an engine oil top up?
An oil change involves draining and replacing old engine oil along with the oil filter to ensure optimal engine performance and prevent wear. This is typically recommended every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the make and model and oil type.
On the other hand, an engine oil top-up is adding more oil to maintain the correct level between changes, necessary if the engine consumes oil or develops a leak. Regular checks – at least once a month, like using the dipstick to monitor oil levels are generally recommended.
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Frequently asked questions about engine oil change & replacements
Read our answers to questions about engine oil change costs, symptoms and more.
What does engine oil do?
Engine oil is a lubricant used to reduce the friction between the moving parts of the engine as well as an aid to cooling by dissipating the heat generated.
What does an engine oil change involve?
- The mechanic will raise the vehicle and ensure that the surrounding area is protected against any spillage
- The mechanic will drain the oil and change the oil filter
- Mechanic will then refill the engine with the correct grade and quantity of quality oil
- Mechanic will run the engine and once cool, will re check the level
- Any dashboard based oil service and quality warnings will be reset to indicate the oil service has been performed
Is it worth doing your own oil change?
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend an engine oil change is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.
What are the symptoms of bad engine oil?
Fundamentally, unless it has gone too far, the average motorist is unlikely to know there is something wrong physically with it.
There may be an oil pressure warning on the dashboard that could indicate the oil isn’t circulating as well as it should due to a blocking filter or even a failing oil pump or there may be an oil level warning, which would indicate there isn’t enough oil in the engine. However both of these warnings are not really an indicator of the actual oil quality but can alert you to potential issues.
Therefore typical symptoms are;
- Engine oil level warning
- Engine oil pressure warning
- Service indicator lights
- Oil quality warning light
How long will an engine oil change take?
An engine oil change usually takes around 1 hour, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.
How often should I replace the engine oil?
As oil heats up and cools down, carbonisation occurs, which is why oil turns a dark black colour. The more this occurs and the more its chemical structure is mashed during the friction process, the oil quality will fall away until it not longer provides the purpose it is used for,
This is why the manufacturers have recommended oil change frequencies, however, it is not the full story. There is also the time recommendation as well, but this is to try and ensure that regular changes are made. An engine that is used in a vehicle that sits in stationary traffic the majority of its time, but doesn’t accumulate high mileages, is still going to be running and that is of course what reduces the properties.
How much do oil changes typically cost?
On average an engine oil change costs around £90. Typical prices can range anywhere from £60 to £150. Ultimately, the cost of an engine oil change depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having the engine oil changed by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!
Can I still drive with bad engine oil?
Having the correct level and grade of engine oil is of paramount importance both for maintaining engine efficiency and performance. Driving with a bad engine oil could cause damage to the engine. If you suspect there is any issue with your engine oil or there are concerns about its age or condition, book with a professional mechanic with immediate effect to check the engine oil and replace it if necessary.
Should I change engine oil every 10,000 miles?
Most auto manufacturers recommend changing engine oil every 5000-7000 miles. However, keep in mind that older cars may need its engine oil changed more frequently. The best thing to do is check the owner's manual for manufacturer recommended oil change frequency.
What does the 15% next to oil light mean?
The oil life indicator on the dashboard is a maintenance reminder that lets the driver know when it is time to change the engine oil and filter. The indicator is usually a percentage that counts down as the oil is used. When the indicator reaches 15%, it usually indicates you have a few hundred miles to go before it's time to change the engine oil.
How long will 15% Oil Life last?
If the manufacturer recommended oil change is recommended every 10,000 miles for example, then 15% would mean you have about 1500 miles to go before you need to change the oil. If it's 5000 miles, then 15% oil life indicator would mean 750 miles left. Remember this is a rough approximation so it's always good to check the engine oil regularly with the dipstick method and not let it do below the "low" mark.
What will happen when Oil Life hits 0?
When the oil life hits 0%, you can technically still continue to drive the car. But since the quality of oil has degraded, it is important to change the oil as soon as possible as it can cause harm to the engine.
What engine oil is better, synthetic or conventional?
Synthetic oil is generally considered to be more durable. high-performing and efficient than conventional oil, and it is often the recommended choice for newer vehicles.
Unlike conventional oil, fully synthentic oils are also designed to flow quickly in winter conditions and resist extreme heat, which allows the car engine to operate smoothly year-round.
Can I switch from using conventional oil to synthetic oil?
Yes, it is generally safe to switch back and forth from conventional to synthentic oil. However, it is important to remember that synthetic oil is far more superior then conventional oil so once you switch back to conventional oil it will not offer the efficiency the synthetic oil did for your engine.
If you're not sure about switching, you can always consult a mechanic to advise what's best for your vehicle.
Which engine oil is the best for my car?
The best oil recommended for your car will be listed in the owner's manual.
Engine oil comes in different viscosities, and is generally signified by a grade number, such as 5w40. It is important to consult the owner's manual as using the wrong type of oil can cause stress to the mechanical components of the engine that need optimum lubrication.
What happens if I do not top up engine oil?
If you don't get your engine oil topped up, it will eventually lead to engine failure.
Engine oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, and without it, these parts will start to grind against each other and cause serious and expensive damage to the engine.
Is a bad engine oil an MOT failure?
No, bad engine oil does not lead to an MOT failure as it is not a checkpoint. However, an MOT tester may suggest that if the engine oil is bad or low that it is not advisable to test the vehicle as it could damage the vehicle. They may then refuse to test the vehicle.
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Mechanics that undertake engine oil work
- ATLASS MOTORS, Mitcham
- Army Mechanic, Lyneham
- Avey’s Autos, Merthyr Tydfil
- Bishopbriggs Mot Centre, Glasgow
- Boss Tuning Ltd, Clothall Bury Farm
- Camel Tow, Mattishall
- Gm Service And Repairs, Saint Leonards-On-Sea
- Hex Auto Ltd, Longford
- Jones Automotive, Chester
- Kash Auto's, Hartcliffe
- Kevin Mahon, Derry
- Landmarkautos, Enfield
- MJB Tyre & Auto Services, Dyffryn Ardudwy
- MVMS Mobile Vehicle Maintenance Services, Oxon
- Mochanixs, Birmingham
- PEELS WHEELS LIMITED, Morecambe
- Rhino Recovery Ltd, Aldershot
- The Motor Medics (Midlands) Ltd, Stanton-Under-Bardon
- West Wales Mobile Mechanics, Aberaeron