Getting an oil change is essential for the well-being of your car, but how often should this happen and what oil should you use? This post can help you decide.

Oil Change Myths You Can Ignore

After years of owning and caring for a car, it's probably very clear just how important oil changes are for your vehicle. Information beyond that, however, can get a little tricky. It seems just about everyone has a different opinion about how often to get oil changes and what oil to use. Below are some common oil change myths and the truth behind them so that you can make better informed decisions the next time you're headed to the shop.

All Cars Need Oil Changes Every 3,000 Miles

The idea that all cars need to get their oil changed every 3,000 miles is widely believed but it isn't true for all cars. This may have been true in the past, but newer model cars no longer need oil changes so often. Through the years, advances have been made not only in engines but also in motor oil. As a result, oil change intervals have been extended. There isn't a set number at which all cars should get their oil changed since this will depend on a number of different factors. Things like the type of oil in your car and how old your car is can influence how often your car will need an oil change. With that said, get to know your oil and your manufacturer's recommendations so that you have the most accurate information regarding oil changes.

Oil Changes Can Be Skipped

Your car may not need an oil change as often as you thought, but it will need new oil at some point. The idea that your car can run on the same oil forever is completely wrong, so ignore this advice. In fact, if you skip getting oil changes, your car can suffer some serious damages, including engine failure. This is because, as your oil gets older it starts to break down and can turn into sludge. As this happens, your oil is no longer able to provide your engine the lubrication and protection it needs to continue running safely. Because of this, it's important that you get your oil changed when needed.

Synthetic Oil Causes Leaks

When synthetic oil was introduced into the market it was believed that this new type of oil caused issues, including leaks. This information is false, especially now that motor oils have gone through serious changes and upgrades through the years. Some car owners may notice leaks after switching from conventional oil to synthetic oil, but these leaks were probably already there. The reason this happens is because your conventional oil can build up around seals, covering up leaks. When you introduce a synthetic oil into your engine, the properties in this oil can clean away these deposits, exposing leaks that were already there. Before getting your oil changed, consider getting a synthetic oil change in Ham Lake. To reap the many benefits associated with synthetic oil, use an oil like AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil. To find the best synthetic oil for your vehicle, contact the oil experts at All Service Oil. Give them a call at (763) 257-3130 to learn more or check out the online store.

Dark Oil Means It's Time for a Change

If you just had your oil changed and your new oil is already looking quite dark, there is no reason to worry. While new oil is a lighter color, it quickly gets darker as it works its way through your engine. You'll know your oil needs to be changed when it also becomes thicker and definitely get it changed if it also has particles floating in it.

Synthetic Oil Is Forever

A common myth surrounding synthetic oil is that if you decide to use a synthetic oil, you can't ever go back to using a conventional oil. This simply isn't true. You can change back and forth as you please without having to worry about engine issues. As long as you use the correct oil for your car, your engine should be fine. However, once you use a synthetic oil you may not want to go back to a conventional oil, but this choice is up to you,

It's Time for a Synthetic Oil Change in Minneapolis

Next time you're taking your car in for an oil change, consider making it a synthetic oil change. To learn about all the benefits your car will experience thanks to a synthetic oil, call All Service Oil at (763) 257-3130. Their oil experts will be happy to help you find the perfect oil for your vehicle.