Checking and changing your engine oil is an important part of maintaining the condition of your engine. There are many different types of oil available. When choosing an oil, you can use the viscosity as a guide. This will be detailed by a number on the side of the bottle. For example: 10W50. 10 indicates the thickness of the oil when unheated; the closer to 0, the more fluid the oil. 50 indicates the viscosity when heated—the higher this number, the more fluid it becomes. Before you buy engine oil, use our search feature to find the right kind of oil for your vehicle.
If you’re looking to buy engine oil online, try Mister-Auto. We’re one of the leading marketplaces for car parts and accessories. With over 300,000 products in our online catalogue, we have everything from synthetic and synthetic blends to conventional mineral based engine oils, and much more. Additionally, if you have any questions, you can call us between 9 to 5 from Monday to Friday. So, for unbeatable value, try Mister-Auto today.
As a general rule, it’s recommended that you change your engine oil every 3,000 miles, or roughly every 6 months. However, there’s an easy way to check that will save you unnecessary work and hassle. You can do this by checking the oil level on the dipstick. Start with a cold engine. Locate the dipstick and pull it out, then clean it with some paper towels, place it back in the hole and then pull it out for a second time. This should tell you two things: how much oil is left, and the condition of the oil inside.
Black oil. As the oil runs through your engine it will gradually pick up particles of dirt and carbon and begin to thicken. It will also change from a honey colour to dark brown or black. If the oil is thick and dark then it’s time to change the engine oil. This is especially important if there are pieces floating in it as these could clog up the filter.
Loud engine. When the oil is clean, it lubricates the whole engine making it run smoothly and quietly. It’s important for the maintenance of your vehicle. If the engine oil is too low, then the components will make a grinding noise. If your vehicle is making sounds when you switch it on, then chances are you need new engine oil.
Engine or oil light. Finally, on older car models, low or unclean engine oil is normally one of the first reasons for the check engine light to switch on. Checking the oil is also one of the quickest ways to determine the problem. Nowadays, many cars have an oil change light. If it switches on—don’t ignore it. Buy engine oil and change it as soon as possible.