How often do you need to change motor oil?

Do you need to change your oil every 3,000 miles?  Most drivers are still under the impression that this is the case.  The truth is that this interval is no longer necessary.  Engine oil does get dirty and this dirt can clog engine parts but if your car is less than 5 years old – changing the oil every 3,000 miles is probably a waste of money, time and….oil. 

Thanks to the improvements in high quality lubricants and tighter tolerances in manufacturing of newer vehicles, the recommendation by many automakers is now at 5,000, 7,000 10,000 or more depending on driving conditions.   

Check with your car’s manufacturer.  For example, Toyota recommends 5,000 for a 2005 Tacoma pickup but Honda says 7,500 for a 2002 Odyssey.  A 2010 BMW 3 can go up to 15,000 before you change your oil. 

Want more information – call the experts sat Autovantage Service Center – 530-823-3456

What does the SAE Viscosity rating on your Motoroil bottle mean?

What do the viscosity numbers really mean on a bottle of motor oil?

 Viscosity is the oil's resistance to flow or, for the layman, an oil's speed of flow as measured through a device known as a viscometer. The thicker (higher viscosity) of an oil, the slower it will flow.

You will see oil viscosity measurement in lube articles stated in kinematic (kv) and absolute (cSt) terms. These are translated into the easier to understand SAE viscosity numbers you see on an oil bottle.

A W on a viscosity rating means that the oil’s viscosity has been tested at a Colder temperature. The numbers without the W are tested at 210° F or 100° C which is considered an approximation of engine operating temperature. In other words, a SAE 30 motor oil is the same viscosity as a 10w-30 or 5W-30 at 210° (100° C).

The difference occurs when the viscosity is tested at a much colder temperature. For example, 5W-30 motor oil performs like a SAE 5 motor oil would perform at the cold temperature specified, but still has the SAE 30 viscosity at 210° F (100° C) which is engine operating temperature.

This allows the engine to get quick oil flow when it is started cold verses dry running until lubricant either warms up sufficiently or is finally forced through the engine oil system. The advantages of a low W viscosity number is obvious. The quicker the oil flows cold, the less dry running. Less dry running means much less engine wear.

We at Autovantage Service can advise you on the oil best suited for your vehicle and the area of use.  Click here for more information on Autovantage or Call us at 530-823-3456

When Should Car Batteries Be Replaced?

How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

The Answer: Lead acid car battery life expectancy is 3-5 years. Auto battery life is shorter in regions with hot climate due to water loss and sulfation.

The most simple and effective way to extend the life of an automotive battery is to keep it charged close to 100%. Periodically check the state of charge of your battery and charge it with a dedicated charger device when necessary.

 Consequently, try to avoid deep battery discharges that can happen, for example, if you leave your car's lights on.

Hybrid car battery life expectancy and electric car battery life expectancy is about 8 years.

Need a new battery or need to have it charged to last longer, click HERE for Autovantage.