If you need auto repair service, Chicago you should start with knowing your oil. When you drive, the heat from your engine breaks down the oil which is used as a lubricant for the moving parts. When this happens, it becomes less effective and several bad things may start happening.
The purpose of this slippery stuff is not only to lubricate your engine, but also to trap dirt and any other potentially destructive floaters which could cause major damage. But like all good things, your oil's ability to protect and serve will come to an end.
Without the protection of clean lubrication, parts of your engine rub together and begin to wear out. This will not only decrease the lifespan of your car, but it will become very, very costly to repair and replace.
Changing your vehicle's oil is one of the most simple and important things you can do if you want to save money on auto repair service, Chicago. And just to put your mind at rest: this is not expensive.
Most manufacturers recommend you change your oil and filter every 3,000 - 5,000 miles. However, it is always a good idea to consult your owner's manual for more detailed information.
Auto Repair Service Chicago Tip #1 - Do Not Over Fill!
Never overfill your vehicle's engine. If you put too much in, the crankshaft can actually come in contact with it. This is bad. Because the crankshaft is turning at several thousand revolutions per minute, it will cause the stuff to froth.
Having this happen is a lot like the situation created if grandmother made her famous spaghetti sauce by stirring the pot at the speed of sound. The walls and ceiling would get quite a treat, but the family would go hungry.
If you are low on oil, you can add any grade you like, though we advise you to use the grade recommended in your owner's manual. If you regularly run low, be sure to mention it to your auto repair service professional.
Running low frequently could be a leak or you may be buring oil. Both of these can be signs of major problems down the road if you don't get it looked at.
At some point, every engine starts to burn oil. It's best to get into the habit of checking the dipstick from time to time, and you just might avoid having your engine melt down one day.
Auto Repair Service Chicago Tip #2 - Change Oil More Frequently If...
- You have jackrabbit starts, heavy acceleration, or high speed driving
- You live where the climate is extremely hot or cold
- You often drive on dirt roads
- Your engine is old and burns oil
- You frequently carry heavy loads
Auto Repair Service Chicago Tip #3 - Checking Your Oil is Simple
1: With your vehicle parked on a level surface, remove the oil dipstick.
2: Clean it off using a paper towel or old rag, and then reinsert it.
3: Remove it again, and check the oil level.
The dipstick shows the oil level; the MIN marking means your at the minimum operating level and is a quart low. Ideally, it should be right at the full mark. If it's at or below the add mark, that means you are a quart low and should add a quart. If it's between the two marks, you can add part of a quart to bring it up to full.
