A good engine is a sign of a well-maintained vehicle. You cannot imagine your vehicle running without an engine, so you must get it checked regularly to keep it in optimal condition. The engine’s performance may deteriorate with regular use, so regular oil change is necessary. The prime job of the engine oil is to ensure that the engine is working properly. It removes contamination and improves engine life, especially if you drive in extreme conditions. Oil change services will replace your engine oil and oil filters to ensure that the engine works efficiently for longer.

What does an oil change service offer?
A full-service oil change is a comprehensive maintenance package for your vehicle. Other than a regular oil change, companies offer additional services to enhance and improve the life of your vehicle. A typical full-service oil change will include the following services:

• Change of engine oil that is compatible with your vehicle
  You can bring down your auto repair costs significantly with regular vehicle maintenance. Lubricating the engine is vital to ensure the proper working of other engine parts, and it’s equally important to choose the right oil for your vehicle.
• Replacement of oil filters with air filter check
  Most automobile companies recommend a filter change with every oil change. Changing the oil filter is equally critical for efficient engine operation as it is the filter that protects your engine from dirt and debris.
• Fluid checks
  Maintaining the correct levels of fluids in your vehicle is important for its proper functioning and longevity. Oil changing services check for six important fluids: coolant, engine oil, brake oil, power steering fluid, transmission fluid in an automatic transmission vehicle, and windshield washer fluid.
• Inspection of your vehicle for leaks
  A leak indicates a major issue in your vehicle. By identifying the type of fluid leak, the professionals can estimate the severity of the problem and fix it accordingly.
• Vehicle inspection
  Your car needs a proper inspection to determine its functionality and efficiency. Oil change services perform a complete damage assessment and repair any issues before they become problematic.

How much does it cost?
Every vehicle is different, and so are its requirements. Some vehicles require an oil change after 3,000 miles, while others may need it after 7,500 or even 10,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual to know the best time to go for a full-service oil change.

• A standard oil and filter change can cost anything from $50-$120. If you are getting a full-synthetic oil change to protect your engine, the cost includes the price of engine oil, oil filter, and labor. That said, the biggest determiner is the kind and quality of the oil used.
• Another factor that determines the cost of an oil change is the size of your vehicle’s engine. The smaller the engine, the less oil it requires; a 4-cylinder engine usually requires about 5 quarts, while a 6-cylinder engine needs around 6 quarts.

Why should you go to the professionals?
Although doing an oil change yourself is an inexpensive option, it requires good knowledge and expertise, which you might not have. Here are some reasons to hire a professional for your regular vehicle maintenance:

• You may not know everything about the vehicle and may miss out on some value-added services. A professional full-service oil change often comes with additional maintenance services.
• Hiring a licensed professional service will ensure high-quality services because they have the experience to deal with vehicles of different makes and models.
• Companies providing oil change services hire professionals to deal with vehicle maintenance, who handle it with proper care.

Do not blindly trust any company when your vehicle needs an oil change because they offer cheap services. Instead, research and approach reputed companies that offer quality services at affordable rates.