A qualified auto tech will also check other fluids while changing your oil.

Allowed to go long enough without an oil change, engine oil will fill with dirt and particles that, over time, will turn the oil into sludge.  In the process, detergent additives in the oil will breakdown and the oil’s ability to reduce heat, friction and damage between moving parts will dissipate. Long before that point, however, the oil’s efficiency will deteriorate to an unreasonable level; it will no longer fulfill its vital role as an engine lubricant. That’s why timely oil changes are essential.

Imagine taking a kitchen blender and filling it with rocks and then switching it on. With that kind of abuse the blender won’t last very long. The same holds true for an engine subjected to the abuse of operating without fresh, clean oil.

At one time, car manufacturers recommended changing engine oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. Today, with advancements in the refinement of engine oil and improvements to the detergent additives in oil, engine’s can often drive further and longer between oil changes. However, it’s a very good idea to refer to your owner’s manual. It’s highly recommended that you adhere closely to that schedule.

Some folks still like to change the oil in their cars themselves. If you have someone like that in your family, just make sure they support the car safely before climbing under to drain the old engine oil and replace the oil filter. They should use a good quality oil with a viscosity that is specified for the car and fits the particular season at the time here in McHenry, Illinois.

If you’re like most car owners in McHenry, you’ve probably decided it’s just as well to take your car somewhere for an oil change. No one needs to get all dirty climbing under the car and changing the engine oil.

You may take your car to one of those chain stores where they promise a fast assembly line style oil change.  In the process, you may find that you’re paying extra for speed which translates to a rushed job.

At a quality auto repair shop, they can often get you in right away. If not, some auto repair shops, such as Performance Unlimited in Ringwood, offer a free drop-off and pick-up service.  But, the real difference is that you’ll have a highly qualified and skilled auto repair technician working on your vehicle. If they do come out to the waiting room or call to say you car needs additional service, you’ll know it’s not just someone trying to make an additional sale.

It helps, of course, if you’ve developed a relationship with your auto repair shop, a relationship built on trust. That’s a relationship that goes beyond oil changes and extends to total service of your vehicle. With such a relationship, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your car is as safe and reliable as possible.