Oil changes are among the most critical maintenance tasks for keeping your car’s engine healthy and running smoothly. While many drivers are aware that they need regular oil changes, few truly understand what happens during the service and why each step is important. By breaking it down, you’ll see why staying on top of oil changes is essential to protecting your investment and keeping your vehicle performing at its best.
Why Oil Changes Are So Important
Engine oil plays a vital role in lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing overheating. It also helps clean the engine by carrying away dirt and metal particles. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its effectiveness, which can lead to increased wear and costly engine damage.
Routine oil changes ensure your engine stays properly lubricated and free from harmful contaminants.
Step 1: Draining the Old Oil
The first step is to safely lift the vehicle and remove the oil drain plug located at the bottom of the oil pan. This allows the old, dirty oil to completely drain out.
Draining all the oil ensures no old contaminants remain that could mix with the fresh oil. Technicians also inspect the drained oil for signs of metal shavings or excessive sludge, which might indicate internal engine issues.
Step 2: Replacing the Oil Filter
Once the old oil is drained, the oil filter is removed and replaced. The oil filter catches dirt, metal particles, and sludge to keep your engine oil clean as it circulates.
A clogged or old oil filter can’t do its job effectively, leading to dirty oil circulating through your engine and potentially causing premature wear.
Step 3: Installing the Drain Plug
After draining the oil and replacing the filter, the technician will reinstall and properly tighten the drain plug. This step is crucial to prevent leaks.
A new gasket or washer might also be used to ensure a tight seal, which helps maintain proper oil pressure.
Step 4: Adding Fresh Oil
Next, the correct type and amount of fresh oil are added to your engine. Using the right oil grade and viscosity is important to meet manufacturer specifications and ensure proper lubrication under all operating conditions.
Synthetic oils, often recommended for modern vehicles, provide better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures.
Step 5: Checking Oil Levels and Leaks
Once the oil is filled, the technician starts the engine and lets it run for a few minutes. This circulates the new oil and allows them to check for leaks around the drain plug and filter.
After the engine is shut off and given a few minutes to settle, the oil level is checked and topped off if necessary to ensure it’s at the optimal level.
Additional Checks During an Oil Change
A professional oil change service often includes a quick inspection of other vehicle systems. Technicians might check:
Air filters.
- Fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer).
- Tire condition and pressure.
- Belts and hoses.
- Lights and wipers.
These additional checks help identify small issues before they become larger problems, ensuring your vehicle is safe and road-ready.
Importance of Following Recommended Intervals
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual provides the recommended oil change intervals, which can vary depending on your driving habits, environmental conditions, and the type of oil used.
Neglecting oil changes or extending intervals too far can lead to sludge buildup, reduced engine performance, and even complete engine failure — repairs that are far more costly than regular maintenance.
Trust Cottman of Waldorf in Waldorf, MD
At Cottman of Waldorf in Waldorf, MD, we take oil changes seriously because we know they’re the foundation of a long-lasting engine. Our technicians use high-quality oils and filters tailored to your vehicle, and we perform thorough inspections during every service.
Whether you’re due for a routine oil change or want a full checkup before a long trip, we’re here to help. Schedule your oil change with us today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your engine is in expert hands.