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 Should You Get New Tires?

Purchasing a new set of tires for your vehicle is a big investment.  Thus, many drivers want to know about how many miles should you get new tires.  Most vehicle manufacturers state that the tires that come on their new vehicles will last around 50,000-60,000 miles.  Tire manufacturers also provide a mileage guideline for each of their tires so that vehicle owners will know what to expect out of their new tires.

Of course, there are some factors that will determine at about how many miles should you get new tires, such as:

• What kind of car you own and how you drive, 
• How you maintain your tires
• Quality of the tire
• All-purpose or all-season tire
• How the tire is mounted on the car. 
• Manufacturer’s stated length of tread life. 

Tire repair is quick, easy, and relatively cheap, and seemingly insignificant.  But tires that are in good condition are important for your driving safety.  Here are several maintenance tips to remember: 

• Inspect air pressure – A properly inflated tire will ensure optimal contact with the road, increase fuel economy, and help the tread wear more evenly. 
• Visual Checkup – Measure the amount of tread remaining, check tires for slashes, visible wires, or damage to the sidewall.
• Tire rotation – About every 6 months (or between 6,000 to 8,000 miles), rotate your tires around to a different position on the vehicle to make sure they wear in an even pattern.  
• Wheel Alignment – Wheel Alignment refers to an adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension so that the angles of the tires affect how they make contact with the road.  Misalignment wears out tires irregularly, decreasing the life of the tire and compromising the safety of your vehicle.
• Tire Balancing – Tire balancing will help achieve the smooth rolling of the tire. 

Tip for Drivers:  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that tires be replaced every 6 years regardless of the number of miles driven. 

Are you wondering how many miles should you get new tires?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our tire repair services and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.