The engine oil in a car performs several crucial functions, such as lubricating and cooling the engine’s moving parts. That said, it must be changed regularly. Changing a car’s engine oil entails making crucial technical decisions, like what oil to use and how much to use. One must also adhere to certain directions for a successful oil change. Even a tiny error can harm the engine and reduce its lifespan.

Why is it necessary to change the engine oil frequently?
A car’s engine needs an oil change periodically, as the oil can wear off over time and lose its machine lubrication ability. Generally, the frequency of oil changes depends on several factors, such as the make and model of the car, the type of oil used, and the driver’s habits. In the past, it was recommended to change the oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. However, many modern cars can go for longer between oil changes. Most car manufacturers recommend an oil change after every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. It’s important to check the owner’s manual of the car to determine the recommended oil change interval. Generally, if a person drives in severe conditions such as extreme temperatures, dusty roads, or stop-and-go traffic, they may need to change the oil more frequently.

Mistakes to avoid when replacing car engine oil

1. Using the wrong oil
Regularly changing the oil in the car engine is necessary for optimal performance, as it removes dirt build-up and other particles from the engine. However, using the wrong type of oil can not only decrease efficiency but also lead to damage to essential parts of the engine. Since different engines require different types of oil, one must replace the motor oil with a compatible type and viscosity. Too thick oil can damage certain seals, causing leaks and clogging up filters and narrow passages inside the engine. In contrast, if one uses an oil with too low a viscosity, it won’t flow properly through the engine, leading to increased heat and eventual breakdowns of parts. Therefore, using the correct oil is essential in avoiding more significant damage.

2. Using an inadequate quantity of oil
Using too much oil during a regular engine oil change can cause over-pressurization of the engine, resulting in an array of potential problems. The oil can enter the combustion chamber and get burned with fuel, leading to p oor oil circulation, i ncreased friction among metal parts, i ncreased exhaust gas temperature, and  build-up of excessive deposits on pistons and valves.  These issues can decrease the engine’s performance significantly. 

Not adding enough oil can also have detrimental effects such as i nsufficient lubrication, o verheating, and p ossible breakdowns.  Therefore, using the correct quantity of oil recommended by the vehicle’s owner’s manual is essential. If someone is not confident about changing the engine oil, they can look for official Ford instant oil change, Quick Lane oil change services, Quick Lube oil change service, and Valvoline (VOIC) oil change services for an efficient oil change.

3. Not warming the engine
Before changing the engine oil, it’s important to warm up the car engine. Doing so allows the oil to flow more efficiently, which makes draining it much easier. Moreover, when the vehicle engine is still cold, fragments of dirt and sludge can remain trapped inside the engine. Warming up the engine helps efficiently remove these particles from the engine and reduces their impact on moving parts. When the engine is warmed up, the oil has already gone through its cycle of lubricating all the parts and settling in the sump at the bottom of the system.

In addition, a warm engine will reduce tension on seals and gaskets, making it easier to drain out used oil while preventing leaks and drips. Thus, one might want to wait for a few extra minutes before changing the engine oil. Warming the auto engine before changing its oil could make all the difference when maintaining a reliable ride.

4. Not changing the oil filter
It is important to replace the oil filter with every oil replacement. The oil filter draws off any dirt and contaminants that accumulate in the oil during normal operation, helping the engine function efficiently. A clogged filter can prevent the oil from flowing properly, damaging the engine. Additionally, an old or clogged oil filter will block vital oil from lubricating and cooling moving parts, resulting in possible engine damage over time.

5. Reusing gaskets or seals
When changing engine oil, reusing old gaskets and seals is not recommended. Over time, as these components are exposed to the oil for extended periods, they become loose, brittle, or warp and lose their original shape. Reusing old gaskets and seals can lead to serious engine damage due to improper sealing. It can have costly consequences, such as leaks, blowouts, or a damaged engine block or cylinder head. 

Instead of reusing old gaskets or seals when changing the engine oil, it is best to replace the old gaskets and seals with new ones of better quality that fit well. Doing so will help ensure a safe and leak-free operation.

Replacing engine oil is one of the most important maintenance tasks when caring for a vehicle. Individuals should know which oil their vehicle needs. By avoiding mistakes, one can ensure the engine stays strong and performs well. 

If someone is ever in doubt or feels overwhelmed with the task, they can consult an expert like the official Ford instant oil change to get more specific advice about the car’s maintenance needs.