Oil Changes Advice

This basic service is the minimal any vehicle should get. With the additions of synthetic fluid and more precise engines, oil changes are still part of regular maintenance. The manufacturers have introduced maintenance monitoring systems that tell you when to change your oil. Although this may seem very convenient, this could have disasterous effects on your vehicles engine. Our advice is performing regular oil changes, this is the best way to extend a vehicles engine life. Many clients only drive short distances (12,000km/year) which generally will cause excessive moisture build-up. Most engine oils can only sustain a certain amount of moisture before they become incapable of protecting against corrosion and acid formation. This corrosion can lead to internal damage and premature wear. Although the mileage portion of the oil change has not been achieved, the time aspect has just as an important role. Our advice is to replace your oil between 3 to 4 months. This will save you money in the long run. Also keep in mind there are many different grades, viscosities and  types of engine oil. Many vehicles require synthetic which lowers friction within the engine to improve performance and lowers emissions. Quality of the oil used to perform oil changes is often overlooked and should be a question asked by anyone. Often times, quick lube shops will use the lowest grades of oil to allow for lower costs of the oil change. We use Valvoline, Motul, Redline, and Eneos oils. These oils are the best quality oils available which will protect your investment.

Transmission Flushes

When it comes to transmission flushes, it is wise to consult the manufacturer owner’s manual and follow the guidelines outlined within. Often times, a technician advice will be to perform more frequent flushes due to conditions of fluid caused by wear, driving habits and conditions. If the manufacturer recommends a transmission flush, it is probably advisable to have the service performed. However, it is true that not all manufacturers recommend this service at frequent intervals. It is not uncommon for flushes to be performed only every 48,000 km or sooner. Be very careful when taking your automobile to quick oil change or lube service stations. These types of shops might be quick to recommend a transmission flush when in fact they are only performing a fluid exchange. The difference between a fluid flush and exchange is a flush uses a chemical or solvent to clean the components before exchanging the fluid followed by a conditioning additive. The fluid exchange is the simple act of replacing the fluid. Dirt and debris will only be cleaned after time due to the new fluid but as the contaminants are cleaned from the components, the fluid will lose its capacity to lubricate, and further clean.

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