Is oil change a government plan? Can you use cooking oil as engine oil? Everyone knows that the answer to all of these questions is a hard “no.” But some of the more subtle auto brake oil myths leave individuals with serious questions like, “Once I go synthetic, can my car ever go back to conventional oil?”
Don’t get set adrift in the endless ocean of oil myths — lets clear the fog of myths and disoell them with facts. Discover the truth about oil changes Monroe to keep your engine running stronger, cleaner, and longer!
Unfurling Myths About Oil Changes Monroe
MYTH #1: You Should Change Your Oil Every 300 Months
At some point in your life, you’ve probably been told that you need to change your engine oil every 3,000 miles or three months. If you’ve ever thought, “Hm, that seems excessive,” you’re likely right. This is one of those widely accepted oil change “facts” that is rarely factual anymore.
The 3,000-mile oil change myth comes from a time when engines and oil formulas weren’t as optimized as they are today. Advancements in automotive and engine oil technology have drastically extended many oil change intervals — most modern vehicles only require oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
MYTH #2: You Need To Change Your Oil Before A Long Road Trip
Some believe that you should always change your oil before an extended road trip. The truth is, make the move after noticing the oil change symptoms. While it’s certainly a good idea to ensure your vehicle is in good shape before a long drive, yet it may not be necessary to change your oil before one.
If your car is due for an oil change just after your return, it might be fine to wait until after the trip. Either way, there isn’t any harm in changing your oil early — if it brings you peace of mind, go for it!
MYTH #3: Thicker Oil Is Better For Your Engine
This is one of the most common car care myths out there, and like the 3,000-mile oil change recommendation, it comes from antiquated technology. Nowadays, using motor oil that is too thick may decrease engine efficiency at best.
At worst, it can prevent proper lubrication (particularly on cold mornings), impact the performance of some engine parts that rely on oil pressure as a hydraulic fluid, and lead to even more engine wear.
MYTH #4: IF YOUR OIL IS BLACK, YOU NEED TO CHANGE IT
Common sense says to change your oil when it turns black, but it may not be necessary. Engine oil darkens due to oxidation, which happens naturally as it goes through heating cycles. The detergents and dispersants in engine oil also clean your engine by absorbing soot, carbon, and other combustion byproducts, which further darken your oil.
At the end of the day, black engine oil can be natural and indicate that it’s doing its job! The best thing you can do is change your engine oil and oil filter on par with your vehicle manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule.
MYTH #5: FULLY SYNTHETIC OIL CAUSES OIL LEAKS
When synthetic motor oil first gained attention in the 1970s, it was believed that the chemicals in synthetic motor oil caused your engine to leak. Some early synthetic formulations may have had compatibility issues with some seals. However, the engine oil industry quickly amended the formulation to include components that would improve seal compatibility, helping to keep them nice and pliable.
The truth about synthetic oils is that most are engineered to be better than conventional oils. A high-quality synthetic oil should withstand higher temperatures and is likely formulated to clean better and last longer than conventional oils.
MYTH #6: ONCE YOU GO SYNTHETIC, THERE’S NO GOING BACK
One of the other full synthetic oil change Monroe myths is that you can’t switch between synthetic and conventional oil. This myth comes from the misconception that, like water and oil, synthetic and conventional oils don’t mix.
Here’s our official notice: you can switch between conventional and synthetic oil without concern! Motor oils that are labeled as a synthetic blend already contain both conventional and synthetic oils.
MYTH #7: OIL ADDITIVES BOOST PERFORMANCE
Modern engine oil formulas already contain a balanced set of additives that maintain engine health. Adding extra additives may sound like more of a good thing, but will likely go against your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations/warranty. And doing so could also upset the balance of your oil, potentially harming the engine.
Revitalize Your Engine, Shatter the Myths: Drive with Clarity, Choose EG Auto Center!
As technology advances, so do the recommendations for oil changes. Remember, following your manufacturer’s guidelines and regular maintenance checks are key to keeping your engine running smoothly.
Don’t let myths dictate your oil change habits; rely on facts and expert advice. At EG Auto Center, we prioritize keeping you well-informed for a healthier and longer-lasting vehicle. Next, when you search for the best oil and fluid change near me, Trust us for your oil changes and experience the difference.
Drive smart, drive safe!
