Understanding the Importance of an Oil Change and the Different Oil Types

When you choose to purchase a new or used vehicle, you are doing much more than acquiring a means of transportation. You are making a long-term investment, one that you want to recoup a sizable return on. Routine maintenance on your car, truck, or SUV at regular intervals is essential for maintaining its longevity and getting the most out of what you drive. The most frequent maintenance item you’ll need to have taken care of is an oil change, which is usually done at the same time as a tire rotation. An oil change might be the most rudimentary part of vehicle maintenance but it is also the most crucial.

Look no further if you’re searching for the perfect location for an oil change near Snellville. We have a high-tech service facility that can perform an oil change on your car, truck, or SUV, regardless of the make and model. Understanding the importance of an oil change is crucial. Knowing what types of oil are available and which is best for your particular vehicle is just as important. Having your oil changed regularly with the right kind of oil is how you get the most out of what you drive.

Why Is an Oil Change Important?

There’s a very good reason why having your oil changed regularly is important for the longevity of your vehicle. Your vehicle’s engine is a collection of moving parts. When they operate in unison to propel your vehicle forward, they generate considerable heat through friction. The oil keeps them properly lubricated and allows them to function without overheating.

In addition to lubricating these moving parts, oil also helps remove deposits that accumulate over time. Failure to change your oil can lead to these parts overheating and eventually breaking down. A vehicle that has not had its oil changed regularly will tend to suffer from decreased fuel economy and performance, so drivers in Snellville need to have their oil changed at regular intervals.

How Often Should I Get My Oil Changed?

The frequency with which your vehicle needs to be serviced depends on several factors. Each car is different, and so is the driver who operates it. This will impact how frequently you must bring your vehicle in to change the oil. Snellville residents with a commuter-oriented vehicle will need to have their oil changed regularly, but not as often as a high-performance model. What you use your vehicle for will also determine how often you should see our service center.

If you’re using your car, truck, or SUV for daily commuting in the city streets, you won’t need to change your oil as often as someone who regularly engages in towing or off-roading, as these activities tend to put more strain on the engine. Newer vehicles are designed to go longer distances, while older ones must change their oil more frequently. If you’re unsure how often you need your oil changed, consult your owner’s manual or take the trip from Snellville to see us and have one of our technicians advise you on how often you should have this service performed.

Are All Types of Motor Oil the Same?

If you’ve ever been to an auto parts store, you might have noticed many different motor oil brands and blends. The oil brand you choose, such as Pennzoil, Castrol, or Mobil, mainly depends on your preference and what you want to put into your car, truck, or SUV—all the reputable brands formulate their oil to meet the same industry standards.

However, while the oil brands might be similar, the blends are not. Understanding the difference between the different types of oil is crucial before you bring in your vehicle for servicing. There are three main types of motor oil: conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic. We will examine each one so you can determine which is right for your vehicle.

Conventional Motor Oil

When it comes to the expenses of owning a car, truck, or SUV, there’s always the temptation to cut costs, especially regarding repairs. Therefore, some drivers are tempted to use conventional motor oil, as it’s more affordable than a synthetic blend or full synthetic option. Conventional motor oil costs less and is far more accessible, but the negative aspects of using it in your vehicle far outweigh the good.

Like any type of motor oil, a conventional blend will keep the moving parts in your engine properly lubricated. However, conventional oil isn’t as carefully engineered to protect your vehicle. Conventional oil breaks down much more quickly, meaning that you should have your oil changed more frequently. Some vehicles with synthetic oil only need their oil changed every 10,000 miles, whereas conventional oil may require a change every 5,000 miles to provide the same protection.

Another disadvantage of conventional motor oil is its ineffectiveness under certain weather conditions. Drivers in Snellville should know that under hotter temperatures, conventional oil can thin out and be less effective, hindering their engine’s performance.

Synthetic Blend Motor Oil

Many drivers are tempted to choose a synthetic blend, as it’s still relatively inexpensive and has some of the advantages of a full synthetic oil. As its name suggests, a synthetic blend combines conventional and synthetic oil. It will still provide the necessary lubrication and removal of deposits, but some disadvantages cannot be ignored.

A synthetic blend lasts much longer than conventional oil, which means less frequent oil changes. While a driver who chooses conventional motor oil should expect to get it changed every 5,000 miles, a synthetic blend can last 7,500 miles between changes. Many modern vehicles require a synthetic blend as the lowest grade possible for their powertrains.

There are some advantages that a synthetic blend has to offer. However, drivers in Snellville should be wary of a synthetic blend’s capability of functioning in high temperatures, especially the ones that all drivers in Georgia deal with in the summer. The ratio of synthetic to conventional oil in a blend can also vary greatly depending on the brand.

Full Synthetic Motor Oil

If we were to recommend what oil is best for any vehicle brought in for servicing, it would be a full synthetic. Unlike conventional and synthetic blends, full synthetic motor oil is specifically formulated for modern vehicles and allows you to get the most out of what you drive. A full synthetic oil breaks down much more slowly and does a much better job of removing the deposits that accumulate in your engine.

The longer life of a full synthetic means drivers can sometimes drive 10,000 miles or more between oil changes. Many full synthetic blends have proven to be effective in allowing drivers to achieve better fuel efficiency and performance, and also do a much better job withstanding high temperatures. While it might cost more than a conventional or synthetic blend per quart, full synthetic motor oil is what you need to unlock the full potential of your car, truck, or SUV.

Come in for a Full Synthetic Oil Change

Well, there we have it. Not only is it essential that you get your oil changed at regular intervals, but you should also choose the right type of oil to extend the life of your car, truck, or SUV. Full synthetic motor oil will improve performance and fuel economy, remove harmful deposits, and keep the moving parts in your engine properly lubricated. The ability of full synthetic oil to withstand harsh temperatures will be especially appealing to Snellville residents. Bring your vehicle to Loganville Ford today and see what full synthetic motor oil can do for your car.