Tips For A Successful Oil Change and Filter Replacements
Whether you drive a Maserati or a Mazda, oil changes and filter replacements are the quintessential maintenance services for your vehicle. For most vehicles, the oil change is straightforward and relatively easy. So much so, many drivers in Queen Creek AZ opt to perform DIY oil changes. In either case, there are right and wrong ways of performing an oil change.
If you are a DIYer, the certified automotive experts at APA Total Car Care provide helpful and insightful tips for successful oil changes and filter replacements. Continue reading to learn more and don’t hesitate to reach out to APA Total Car Care for the best oil change and filter replacement service in Queen Creek AZ.
Always Perform the Oil Change According to the Manufacturer’s Specifications
No one — and we mean no one — knows your vehicle better than the experts who engineered and built it. As such, before you attempt to change your oil or even change a tire, you should refer to your owner’s manual. From the amount of oil, type of oil, and blend, everything you need to know about your oil change and filter replacements should be explained in the owner’s manual. One of the biggest mistakes novice oil change DIYers make is failing to check out the owner’s manual.
Always Choose the Right Oil Weight for Your Oil Change in Queen Creek AZ
Every vehicle’s engine requires a certain oil weight. Oil weight is a term used to describe the viscosity of the oil, which refers to how well it flows at specific temperatures. The preferred oil weight and viscosity can vary based on the make and model of the vehicle. However, most modern vehicles will have the suggested oil weight printed on the oil cap under the food. If you don’t see it there, you should always refer to your owner’s manual. If you choose the wrong oil, it can reduce the lifespan of your engine.
Let Your Vehicle Cool Down in Queen Creek AZ
Whether it’s a Queen Creek AZ summer or a New Jersey winter, under-the-hood temperatures can be extremely hot. In fact, these temperatures can be anywhere from 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. To put it into perspective, the average temperature in Queen Creek AZ from July to August lingers around 92 degrees Fahrenheit.
As such, before you attempt to perform any work on your vehicle, it’s important to allow it to sit idle for about 20 to 30 minutes. Doing so can help reduce the likelihood that the oil will burn you. If you need to warm up the oil, allow your vehicle to run for about two minutes.
Choose the Right Oil Filter for Filter Replacements in Queen Creek AZ
Oil filter replacements are an important part of your oil change in Queen Creek AZ. Your oil filter removes dirt and grit from the oil circulating throughout your engine. However, if your oil filter is clogged, it will no longer be able to perform. As such, it’s imperative to change the oil filter whenever you perform an oil change.
Similar to the type of oil, the right oil filter will depend on the type of engine and the manufacturer’s recommendations. When you’re looking to perform a DIY oil change, make sure to select and use the right oil filter replacements.
Seal the Oil Filter Replacements Properly
Another common mistake made by experienced and inexperienced oil change DIYers is not allowing oil filter replacements to dry. If you apply the new oil filter replacement to your vehicle and it’s wet, it can result in a subpar seal that may lead to leaky and loose filters. After some time, the new oil filter replacement can even unthread itself.
When this occurs, you’ll find oil all over your driveway — if you’re lucky. If luck isn’t on your side, you could be driving down the interstate or highway in a vehicle without oil. In either case, make sure to fill oil filter replacements about halfway with oil and spread a small amount around the filter to foster the perfect seal.
Contact APA Total Car Care in Queen Creek AZ Today
While performing an oil change may be simple for an experienced DIYer, it’s filled with pitfalls. At APA Total Car Care, we often see drivers looking to save a buck end up spending thousands more correcting their mistakes. Fortunately, the mechanic at APA Total Car Care offers a fast, affordable, and comprehensive oil change service that includes filter replacements.
Contact us today to schedule your oil change in Queen Creek, AZ.
Contact APA Total Car Care today by completing our online contact form, giving us a call at (480) 539-6872, or stopping by to see us at 22325 S Scotland Court Suite 101, Queen Creek, AZ 85142.
