How often should an oil change be done?

The frequency of oil changes depends on several factors, including the type of oil used, the make and model of your vehicle, driving situations, and the manufacturer's recommendations. In the past, the general rule of thumb was to change the oil every 3,000 miles. However, advancements in engine and oil technology have extended the recommended oil change intervals for many vehicles.

Here are some general guidelines:

1. Conventional Oil: If your vehicle uses conventional oil, it's usually recommended to change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Inspect your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations.
2. Synthetic Oil: Vehicles using synthetic oil usually have longer oil change intervals, often in the range of 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Some high-performance and luxury vehicles may even have longer intervals.
3. Manufacturer Recommendations: Always follow the oil change interval specified in your vehicle's owner's manual. Manufacturers have specific guidelines based on their understanding of the engine design, oil properties, and overall performance.
4. Driving Styles: If you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as extreme temperatures, stop-and-go traffic, towing, or off-road driving, you may want to change the oil more frequently. In such cases, following the "severe" maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is advisable.

It's important to note that many modern vehicles come equipped with oil life monitoring systems. These systems use sensors and algorithms to analyze driving conditions and determine when the oil needs to be changed. If your vehicle has such a system, it's a good idea to follow its recommendations.

Ultimately, regular oil changes are critical for maintaining the health of your engine and ensuring optimal performance. If you're unsure about the appropriate oil change interval for your specific vehicle, consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance.

Wondering how often should an oil change be done? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Rum River Automotive for more information about oil change coupons and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.

Are Oil Changes Necessary?

Many Auto mechanics may hear this question from new and inexperienced drivers.  You don’t have to own a vehicle for very long to hear it said—oil changes are necessary if you want to keep your car running.  In addition to your trusted auto mechanic, the best way to find out what kind of oil to usage and the correct mileage interval recommended by the car manufacturer is to read the owner’s manual.

So why are oil changes necessary?  Because oil deteriorates and loses its efficiency, you may start to notice one or more of the warning signs below of a needed oil change:

1. Dirty Oil – Clean fresh oil is amber in color, but as it collects dirt and particles as it circulates through the engine, it will look dark and dirty.  
2. Noisy Engine – When the oil starts to break down, it loses its efficiency in lubricating the engine. You may start to hear knocking, rumbling, or even roaring coming from the engine.
3. Oil Change Warning Light – This little light indicates that the level of oil is too low. Even though you may get by for a little while by adding quart oil, it’s time for an oil change, especially if the oil has turned dark.  
4. Exhaust Smoke – Smoke coming from the muffler, could be an indication of oil leakage or that there are damaged or faulty parts in the engine. 
5. Smell of oil – If you smell oil while inside your car, it means there’s a leakage. If the smell is mixed with the smell of gas, your vehicle is overheating and oil is burning in the exhaust area.  If left unattended, serious damage could be taking place in the engine. 

Here are some of the benefits of keeping up with regular oil changes:

• Extends the life of your engine
• Optimizes your car’s performance
• Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
• Keeps engine parts lubricated
• Prevents engine overheating

Even though oil changes are relatively simple and cheap, a lot of car owners neglect this service, thinking they are saving money.  Though, the cost of engine repair is far greater than the cost of an oil change service. Many auto repair shops offer oil change coupons for their customers so be sure to take advantage of these savings.

If you’re still wondering why are oil changes necessary, consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our oil change coupons and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How Many Miles Can You Go On An Oil Change?

Many drivers are still asking the question, “How many miles can you go on an oil change?”  The answer continues to be a source of controversy in the automotive industry.  The standard answer used to be every 3 months or 3,000 miles.  Even though some mechanics still recommend the 3,000-mile interval, this advice is now as outdated as car cassette players and road atlases in your glove box.  With today’s modern engines and synthetic oils, some cars can go for many more miles, possibly as many as 10,000. 

According to Ford Motor Company, drivers with usual driving habits with vehicles 2008 and newer should change the oil every 7,500 miles or 6 months, or whichever comes first. Drivers with vehicles 2007 and older should change the oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, or whichever comes first.  Drivers with less typical driving habits with vehicles 2008 and newer should change the oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, and every 3,000 miles or 3 months for cars 2007 and older. 

Even though the mileage interval may be longer, it is still smart to schedule oil changes on a regular basis.  This not only keeps your engine well-lubricated, but it also gives your mechanic the opportunity to check out the condition of other fluids, hoses, and operating systems for any potential issues. 

So how many miles can you go on an oil change?  The best advice we can give you is to check the service schedule listed in your owner’s manual.  Do your research before deciding on the oil-change interval for your vehicle, as it can be dependent upon the type of oil used, the age and make of your vehicle, and your driving habits.

Remember to ask your auto shop about their oil change coupons. Many shops offer these coupons to make frequent oil changes more affordable for their customers.

Wondering about how many miles can you go on an oil change?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our oil change coupons and to Make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Avoid Cheap Oil Changes!

You look up at the sticker in the window of your car and notice you've just ticked over the recommended oil change mileage for your vehicle. So, now you start thinking about where to take your vehicle for the oil change. You drive past a discount oil change location, offering you an oil change for under $20 total. It looks pretty good, and besides, it is just oil, why should you pay more for a job that takes five minutes to complete? Well, while it might just seem like oil, there are other jobs at hand that occur during oil changes. That is why you need to avoid these discount oil services as you are likely being short changed.

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More Than Oil

Oil changes are more than just changing the oil. It also requires changing the oil filter of your vehicle. As oil flows through your engine, it collects small particles. In order to remove these small particles, the oil filter collects these items, preventing it from clogging up inside of the engine, similar to a water filter preventing minerals from moving into your drinking water. Discount oil changes typically leave the filter in place. This can cause a reduction in your oil flow while also allowing the debris to stay inside of your engine. The oil filter costs a few bucks more but it needs to be replaced.

Air Filter

Around the same time you change your oil and oil filter, you should change the air filter as well. Again, this item just costs a few bucks and takes a minute to replace. However, it keeps the air flow into your engine clean while also allowing your vehicle to runs smoothly. All of this is about your engine and keeping it working as it should. To do this, you need to ditch the discount oil joints.

Looking for a premium oil change? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the benefits of a quality oil change. Rum River also offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Air Conditioner Service: Keep Your Cool!

Your cooling system works overtime during the long hot days of summer. The last thing you need is a malfunctioning air conditioning (A/C) system. Make sure it is operating at peak performance before you head out on your summer road trip. A couple of weeks before your trip, schedule an air conditioner service so that you can reach your destination comfortably. Keep your cool by having a necessary air conditioner repair as soon as possible, even if it’s for that short commute to work, or just taking your kids for a picnic in the park.

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A thorough inspection of your vehicle’s A/C should be performed annually so that you can keep your cool when temperatures soar. It is important to always have the A/C system properly maintained to keep it in tip-top shape and to avoid a costly air conditioner repair down the road. A vehicle’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC) keeps the interior cabin comfortable in any season by providing the right temperature and humidity level.

A typical air conditioner service consists of:

• A service technician checks pressures to test operation, refrigerant charge and outlet temperatures.
• If the refrigerant is too low, a leak test is performed to find the source of the leak. Leaking refrigerant is also damaging the ozone layer.
• Refrigerant may be added if necessary to “top off” the system. Your mechanic should know your state regulations, as some states do not allow “topping off.”
• A technician may also check for evidence of refrigerant cross-contamination, which is the mixing of refrigerants.
• An air conditioner service should also include a check of the compressor’s drive belt and tension.

Remember: Check the cooling system at least once a year to make sure it is running efficiently all year long. It will help improve your gas mileage, is more environmentally-friendly, and it will keep you feeling more patient and calm as you drive on.

Take care of any necessary air conditioner repair as soon as possible so that you can finish out the summer in style. For help with vehicle maintenance issues, including an air conditioner service, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Quality Oil Changes Pay Big Dividends!

Everyone is looking for a return on their investment. As a vehicle owner, your vehicle is one of the biggest purchases you may make (outside of your residence).  Some people try to skimp on oil changes, believing they are saving money. They think that because they aren't having any car problems they don't need to pay the price for high-quality oil changes.

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The truth is, it is possible for problems to exist before any symptoms are noticeable. Using inferior oil can cause damage that may not be noticed until later down the road, costing more in the long run with engine problems.

A big pay-off for quality oil changes is that your auto mechanic can check out the other systems of your car for any pending problems at the same time.

Why use high quality oil?

Inferior motor oils can deposit harmful contaminants into the engine's lubricating system. Even before there are any visible symptoms of problems, damage may have already occurred, and the engine's performance level may not be brought back to normal. For maximum engine protection, it's worth the extra cost for a high quality, warranty-backed oil change. Regular oil changes ensure better lubrication for the protection and longevity of your engine.

Good-quality motor oil keeps contaminants separated and held in suspension. Poor quality oils can contribute to sludge build-up formed by a combination of dirt, soot, partially burned fuel, oxidized motor oil, leaked coolant and condensed water vapor produced during combustion. Regular oil changes will drain these contaminants out with the oil, rather than left behind to create sludge.

A Rule of Thumb: Your vehicle should have an oil change service about every 3,000 miles, or every three months. If in doubt, check your owner's manual or ask your auto mechanic for guidance on oil changes and other maintenance issues.

Looking for quality oil changes at affordable prices? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Missing Brake Service?

The braking system is the most critical safety system of your vehicle. Regular brake service will keep your vehicle operating safely with fully functioning brakes. However, some drivers ignore basic brake service because it seems like an inconvenience and they think they are saving a little extra money. Then, all of a sudden, they have trouble stopping in good time due to failing brakes. They are putting the safety of themselves, passengers, and other motorists or pedestrians at risk. So this doesn't happen to you, don't put off professional brake service.

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To check the safety of your brakes, conduct the following test to see how your brakes perform when stepping on the brake pedal:

• Does your vehicle keep traveling? Your brakes may need an adjustment, or possibly new linings.
• Does your vehicle pull to one side or the other? This can be caused by a stuck caliper and fluid leak.
• Do you feel the brake pedal pulsating? This can be caused by overused brakes that overheat.
• Do you feel the steering wheel vibrate? The front discs need to be professionally machined or replaced.
• Do you hear a squealing sound? Squealing can be caused by several issues--the linings are worn and need to be replaced; the drum or disc needs to be machined; the front disc pads are loose or missing their anti-rattle clips; the hardware that attaches the calipers is worn; or the linings are of an inferior quality.
• Do you hear a grinding noise felt in the brake pedal? Grinding brakes are caused by excessively worn linings which allow the metal part of the pad come in contact with the disc or drum. This problem can quickly ruin the most expensive mechanical parts of the brake system. Stop driving immediately and have your vehicle towed to an auto shop.
• Does your vehicle bounce up and down when stopping? The shock absorbers may need to be replaced.
  Note: There are several issues that may keep your vehicle from operating, but brake trouble compromises the complete safety of your vehicle.

Need professional advice about brakes? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389- 3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information about brake service. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman,MN.

Oil Changes Don’t Forget to Recycle!

Most drivers are aware that the recommended oil change should take place about every 3,000 miles or about every three months. Vehicle owners know that a relatively small investment of regular oil changes will pay big dividends! Here are some of those dividends:

• Improves engine performance

• Decreases the buildup of dirt and debris

• Increases MPG

• Reduces harmful emissions

• Extends engine life

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If you take care of your own oil changes, please remember to recycle responsibly. Your auto shop can help you know how and where to recycle used motor oil and filters. Here are a few facts to know about used motor oil:

• Used motor oil can contain toxic substances such as benzene, lead, zinc, and cadmium.

• The oil from a single oil change (1 gallon) can ruin the taste of a million gallons of drinking water (1 part per million), the supply of 50 people for one year.

• One pint of oil can produce a slick of approximately one acre on the surface of water, preventing the replenishment of dissolved oxygen, impairing photosynthetic processes, and block sunlight.

• Crankcase oil accounts for more than 40 percent of total oil pollution of the nation's harbors and waterways.

• Oil dumped on land reduces soil productivity.

• Concentrations of 50 to 100 parts per million (ppm) of used oil can foul sewage treatment processes.

• In the U.S., less than 60 percent of used oil is recycled.

• Recycling all the filters sold annually in the United States would result in the recovery of about 160,000 tons of steel, or enough steel to make 16 new stadiums the size of Atlanta's Turner Stadium.

As part of routine maintenance, regular oil changes are a great investment in your vehicle, saving time and money spent on auto repairs and the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. Also, by responsibly recycling your used motor oil and filter, you can help keep our environment clean!

Is it time for an oil change? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Oil Changes: What are Oil Deposits?

When your arteries became clogged, your doctor usually wants to take immediate action to fix the situation. The same applies to your vehicle. If your car develops oil deposits, you'd be well-advised to take immediate action as well. We know that a poor diet and too little exercise cause sticky deposits called cholesterol to block our arteries. But what's the culprit behind oil gumming up the engine of our vehicles? 

When oil is subjected to a high enough temperature, it can solidify and become baked onto the surface of whatever is close by (i.e., a narrow engine oil passageway or critical engine parts). Oil can also lose its viscosity and become a tar-like goop that makes your engine work harder than usual to run.

When enough of these deposits collect, the possibility of engine problems goes up dramatically. Thick or solid oil can have the reverse effect that clean, normal oil has. Instead of cleaning, lubricating and cooling your engine, it can pollute, hinder and contribute to overheating.

While some makes and models of vehicles are more prone to oil deposits than others, there are several things you can do to keep your vehicle's engine healthy:

• Have regular oil changes, including the filter--follow the manufacturer's recommended intervals stated in your owner's manual.
• Pay attention to signs from your car; such as difficult starting, misfiring, engine running hot, low oil indicator light coming on, or a bad oxygen sensor.
• Use synthetic oils, if affordable for you.
• Be careful with using additives--they may react chemically with your oil in undesired ways.

Need a quality oil change? Make sure you are as safe and prepared as your vehicle can be after an inspection and service by the auto experts at Rum River Automotive! Contact our ASE Certified Technicians by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto center has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Radiator Service: Don’t Build Up Steam!

Spring is here and now is a good time of year to get a radiator service before the hot summer months are here. Protect your engine from overheating and keep your car running smoothly. Prevent an inconvenient radiator repair with regular radiator service performed by a qualified auto mechanic. A dependable vehicle requires a little extra attention, time, and financial investment.

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To maintain your vehicle's cooling system to keep it from blowing off steam, it is wise to periodically take care of these essential radiator service items:

• Every 15,000 miles
• Inspect and adjust belts and hoses;
• Inspect radiator, water pump, core plugs, and hoses for leakage;
• Check pressure cap;
• Every 30,000 miles or as needed
• Replace belts and hoses;
• Replace pressure cap;
• Drain, flush and refill cooling system
• As recommended by your autmechanic
• Clean deposits from the entire coolant system;
• Remove the old anti-freeze and replace with new clean anti-freeze;
• Use additives tincrease the proper flow of coolant;

Use coolant conditioner additive thelp revitalize gaskets and seals which may prevent overheating and breakdowns.

So don't let the steam build up--cool down your radiator with preventative maintenance and complete any necessary radiator repair. Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick radiator service, or it could involve a more complex radiator repair. A trained technician can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle's cooling systems to determine what type of radiator service or repair work is needed.

Need a radiator repair job? Ask the auto mechanics at Rum River Automotive for expert advice about your car or truck's cooling system. They will be happy to help you. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about radiator service. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Make A Car Tune Up One of Your New Year’s Resolutions!

For many people, the New Year is usually a time to make resolutions for the coming year. As the economy continues to fight a stubborn financial crisis, 2014 may present a unique challenge. Budgets are tight and, as a result, you may be looking at keeping your older vehicle a little longer than originally planned. It's easy to overlook the small responsibilities of keeping up good car care, which includes a tune up. Vehicle owners know that regular car tune-up and engine maintenance services are investments that pay off with improved fuel economy, longer engine life and cleaner air.

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Here are three resolutions to consider that will help keep up on your vehicle's maintenance, save you money, and keep you driving safely in the New Year:

#1 -- Schedule a car tune up twice a year. Regardless of how well you think you know your vehicle, a well-trained mechanic can spot things ahead of time that you might miss. There are many components of an engine that require attention and maintenance. Taking the time to schedule a tune up with a good mechanic twice a year may seem obsessive, but preventative maintenance is cheap insurance.

#2 - Keep up with fluid and filter changes. Checking on your vehicle's fluids and filters are crucial to its longevity. Mark one day on your calendar each month to make sure all fluids are topped off and filters clean. It can save you some serious repair dollars down the road.

#3 – Take care of small problems early. This is perhaps the easiest responsibility to overlook, but the potential consequences of doing so can be hazardous. Doing so can lead to larger problems and repair costs. It's easy to hear a strange noise in your vehicle and hope that it will go away. Unfortunately, there aren't any cars out there that can fix themselves.

Remember.... Don't put off minor maintenance or service, such as a car tune up. Your car will thank you by providing good service for many miles to come.

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Oil Change: Ready for Winter Driving?

The cold days of winter are at our door! If you haven't yet made time after the hot months of summer to schedule an oil change, do it now--it is not too late. Those high temperatures of summer probably played havoc on your vehicle's engine, especially relating to oil changes. Don't get caught out in the cold with unexpected engine problems.

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To get your vehicle ready for winter driving, here are a few tips.


    * Oil changes. When oil is cold, it thickens; when it heats up, it becomes thinner. It may have become too thin in hot weather and lost its cooling efficiency for the motor. Regular oil change are crucial when it comes to protecting your engine against extremes in weather.

    * Know the viscosity. Viscosity is measured using two numbers and a letter. For example, 10W-40; the first number (10) refers to the thickness at cold temperatures (0ºFahrenheit), and the second number refers to the thickness at high temperatures (212º Fahrenheit.) The first number is crucial for the cold months of winter--make sure your engine is protected at startup. The second number is more important once the motor is warmed up and running.

    * Types of oil and engine protection.

          o Synthetics - maintain a more consistent viscosity over a wide range of temperatures, but are more expensive and could be incompatible with certain older engines.

          o Synthetic blends - include a combination of both natural and synthetic, providing the benefits of synthetic without the higher cost.

          o Premium conventional oil – natural, and of a higher quality with increased levels of protection.

Your selection will depend on the climate in which you drive, compatibility with your vehicle, and of course, your budget.

To make sure your vehicle survives winter's cold temperatures, check your owner's manual for the best type of oil to use in your specific vehicle. If in doubt, be sure to ask your oil change specialist for advice.

Need to know more about the right oil change for winter? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Rum River offers quality vehicle maintenance and detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.