What does an oil change service include?

An oil change is one of the most vital regular maintenance tasks for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. While it may seem like a simple service, there is more involved than simply draining and filling the oil. An oil change service usually includes the following parts:

1. Draining the Old Oil: The mechanic will remove the old, dirty engine oil by draining it from the oil pan. This is done by unscrewing the oil drain plug, allowing the old oil to flow out.
2. Replacing the Oil Filter: The old oil filter, which traps debris and contaminants, has been removed and replaced with a new one. A clean filter ensures that the new oil stays cleaner for longer.
3. Adding New Oil: The appropriate type and amount of new oil are added based on your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. This can be a conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic oil.
4. Inspection of Key Parts: Many oil change services include a quick inspection of other parts of your vehicle, such as:
• Fluid levels (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid)
• Belts and hoses
• Tire pressure
• Air filter (sometimes checked and replaced if compulsory)
5. Lubrication of Chassis Parts (if applicable): On some older vehicles or specific models, suspension components like ball joints, tie rods, and U-joints may require lubrication. This step is often skipped for newer cars, as they have sealed parts.
6. Resetting the Oil Change Indicator: For cars with an oil life monitor or dashboard indicator, the mechanic will reset the oil change reminder light so that it accurately tracks your next service interval.

Wondering about what does oil change service include? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about oil change coupons and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

When should you get your oil changed?

In a perfect world, the oil in your engine would last for ages, and you'd never have a problem with it. But no matter how good your engine looks from the outside or how well-maintained it seems, there are always signs that things could be better. Signs that you need your oil changed.

Over time, these warnings can become more persistent, and then you notice an unusual noise from your engine. You might also see a drop in performance, smoke, or steam coming out of the side of your car. At this point, you realize that something needs to be done.

Oil changes are fairly easy to perform, and the most reliable sources for auto engines nowadays are used car dealerships and repair shops. If you will get your oil changed elsewhere, take precautions first: Carry a half-gallon with you so that if you need it for any reason (like filling a radiator), it will be available as quickly as possible. You will also need some oil change coupons for the oil change itself.

Unlike auto repair projects, you normally won't need to replace any parts. An oil change is generally a matter of topping up your engine with fresh new oil and ensuring all the old stuff is removed from within your engine. You'll need to remove a few components from the engine and eliminate what's already inside it. But don't worry: It requires only basic tools. And if you've never done an oil change on your car, we'll be right here with you every step of the way.

When should you get your oil changed? It's best to have it done at the beginning of the month before you start driving again after a weekend. Once the job is done, your engine will be protected from harm for much longer than waiting until your oil change cycle ends. Oil changes are done anywhere, but finding the right shop with free oil change coupons is important if you need help doing it yourself. Many people make the mistake of paying large sums of money to mechanics who do a poor job because they don't know any better. So be sure to look for a reputable shop before bringing your car in for service.

Need to know more about when should you get your oil changed?  Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive for more information about oil change coupons and to request an appointment. Our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

 

How Do You Know If You Need An Oil Change?

If you’re a new vehicle driver, you may be asking how do you know if you need an oil change?  There is no easy answer.  In years past, the normal answer used to be every 3 months, or 3K miles, whichever came first.  With the advancement of technology in the automotive industry, this advice is obsolete.  There is a lot of debate among automotive specialists about the right interval for oil changes.  Many auto mechanics still recommend the 3,000-mile oil change.  But, with today’s latest engines, certain types of high-quality synthetic oils can go for many more miles, possibly as many as 10,000. 

Although you may be able to go more miles between oil changes, you will find it beneficial to schedule oil changes on a regular basis.  This is the time that your auto mechanic will check out the condition of other fluids, plus other parts and systems that are subject to a lot of wear and tear, such as hoses, shocks, and brakes. 

Do much researches before deciding on an oil-change interval for your vehicle?  Check out the recommended interval in your owner’s manual and also talk with your auto mechanic.  How you answer the 3 questions below will help you in making a decision:

• What type of oil do you use? 
• How old is your car and what is the make and model? 
• Is your driving “normal”?

Remember to ask your auto repair shop if they offer oil change coupons.  Many auto shops offer these coupons so that their customers find it more affordable to take good care of their cars.

Are you wondering how do you know if you need an oil change?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.