Oil Change

An oil change is a routine maintenance service where a mechanic drains the old, degraded engine oil from your vehicle and replaces it with fresh oil. This process also typically involves replacing the old oil filter.

What changing the oil does for your vehicle

• Lubrication: Fresh oil coats the fast-moving metal parts inside the engine, preventing friction and wear.
• Cooling: It helps dissipate heat, keeping the engine from overheating.
• Cleaning: The oil picks up dirt and metal shavings and carries them to the filter, which removes these harmful contaminants from circulating.

What is included?

• Draining: The old oil is completely drained from the bottom of the engine.
• Filter Replacement: The old oil filter is swapped out for a new one to keep the fresh oil clean.
• Refilling: New motor oil—whether conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic—is poured in to match your manufacturer’s specifications.

How often is it needed?

• General Rule: Most modern vehicles need an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (or every 6 months), whichever comes first.
• Synthetic Oil: Cars that use full synthetic oil can sometimes go between 7,500 and 10,000 miles before needing a change.
• Manufacturer Guidelines: Because driving habits and climates vary, the most accurate schedule for your specific car is always found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or via its built-in oil-life monitor

Overdue Oil Change Symptoms

• Dashboard Warning Lights: The Check Engine Light or the specific Oil Change Indicator (often a dripping oil can symbol) are the most direct ways your car communicates an issue.
• Loud Engine Noises: Old or low oil fails to provide adequate lubrication. This lack of cushioning can result in increased friction, leading to loud ticking, knocking, or rumbling sounds coming from the engine.
• Exhaust Smoke: If you notice blue or gray smoke billowing from your exhaust, it usually means old oil is seeping past degraded seals and burning inside the combustion chamber.
• Burning Oil Smell: A strong, distinct smell of burning oil inside the vehicle cabin indicates your oil is degrading or leaking onto hot engine components.
• Decreased Performance: Old, sludgy oil causes extra drag on moving parts. You might experience sluggish acceleration, rough idling, or even stalling.
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Because an unlubricated engine works much harder, you may notice that your gas tank isn’t taking you as far as it normally does.
• Dark & Gritty Dipstick Readings: Fresh oil is translucent and amber. If you check the dipstick and find the oil is pitch-black, thick, or has a gritty texture, it is contaminated and needs to be replaced.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to act quickly to keep your engine running smoothly. Schedule with KBG to get that old oil swapped out, and get your vehicle running smooth.