TAKING TIME TO CHANGE OIL
The answer to how long it takes to get the oil changed really depends. But in short, the answer generally is about 30 – 45 minutes. Some people change the oil themselves while many go to a fast lube place…it all depends on the method used. But what happens if you don’t take time to get the oil changed? Your engine could greatly be damaged. So, take time to change your vehicle’s oil and filter in a timely manner for your engine’s sake.
THE TIME IT TAKES TO CHANGE OIL IS VERY SHORT VS THE ALTERNATIVE
When it all boils down, choosing to have the oil and filter changed on a regular basis is the way to go, hands down. Oil, such as the Mobil 1 brand is the lifeblood to an engine. Similarly to a human heart, blood is needed to make it pump. The healthier the blood and the amount that is needed is supplied, the better the heart works. In comparison, oil lubricates and helps the engine move the parts. If an engine has access to clean oil and the right amount, the better it works.
How to Avoid New Engine or Replacement Costs
OIL CHANGE COSTS VS ENGINE DAMAGE COSTS
The time and money it takes for an oil change is very small in comparison to replacing an engine (approx. $4500 – labor $1500). People spend thousands of dollars on engine repair or replacement costs a year when only taking a few preventive measures could save car owner’s a bundle of money. A simple oil and filter change costs around $50 to $100 dollars in this year of 2023.
HOW OFTEN TO CHANGE AN OIL FILTER
The oil filter needs to be changed each time the oil is changed. There are different opinions of how often the oil and filter should be changed. However, this car guy says every 3,000 miles or 3 months from the last oil change. Many say that advice is outdated but right now, I am a believer. Of course driving conditions definitely need to be considered (especially if you drive a muscle car doing burn-outs, etc).
And, another consideration is the type of oil used, such as a synthetic type oil. Synthetic oil can last much longer than average types of motor oil. I use Mobil 1 brand oil, and a factory oil filter for my vehicles.
Let me add right here…I firmly believe in using an original equipment or premium-grade oil filter versus a budget, cheaper type. Please, spend the extra few dollars to buy a good oil filter. You will be many dollars ahead in the long run.
WHAT SHOULD YOU RELY ON TO DETERMINE WHEN TO CHANGE YOUR OIL?
The newer models have technical equipment that can either help or not be so reliable. Do not rely on the oil light coming on as an indicator that the oil needs changing. By the time the oil light comes on, it may be too late since the engine could be seriously damaged. That light could be signaling another problem or just be faulty.
Seriously, don’t wait until the oil smells hot to change it either. You could get you stranded by the side of the road with smoke coming out from under the hood. The damage to the engine could be very costly. And of course, there is the time involved with getting the work done (a week, two, ?). Your vehicle may not even be worth the cost of replacing the engine.
Checking the Oil Regularly
Do yourself a favor and just keep a check on the oil. Always, check the oil on level ground and when possible while the engine is cool. It wouldn’t hurt to check the oil level every other gas fill-up. That will give you opportunity to check out other possible issues, such as oil leaks, loose or worn belts, coolant levels, etc. Make sure the oil cap is tightly secured and the dip stick is inserted in place.
Remember, it is better to have the oil a little lower than the “full mark” on the oil stick than to overfill with oil.
RECORD EACH OIL CHANGE
Keep good records…record the date and mileage of each oil and filter change. Many times, a service person will write this information on a sticker, and place it on the windshield.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Is the oil level low? (check on level ground)
Is the oil color black and not clear looking? (it may be pass the time to change it)
Does the oil have a burnt smell? (not good…)
Has the vehicle been driven over 3,000 miles since the last oil and filter change? (it’s o.k. to go longer depending on many factors, such as driving habits (good or bad), weather, environment, not driven – parked, etc.)
Of course, doing things right takes time, and time is a very valuable asset. But, for your engine’s sake and saving your hard earned money, take time to get the oil and filter changed regularly.
Do not treat your vehicle like this…
Years ago back in the early 70s, a friend and I went on a road trip from Georgia to Texas. I was driving my 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner – Muscle Car. That car was definitely a “driver”. And, I drove the soup out of it! So, the mechanical state of this Roadrunner wasn’t topnotch (it had an oil leak). Nevertheless on the way out, we stopped along the way and did arrive to our destination in Texas. That trip was about a 12 hour drive from my home town. We stayed several days for meetings and began the trip back home. On the way back I would stop at a station, fill up with gasoline and add oil. So, the oil basically changed itself. I NEVER turned the 383 engine off…the trip back only took about 9 hours!
I have more sense now. I’m advising any car owner to please not treat your vehicle like that! We really had fun, though. And, and my mom drove that car for years after that. That Roadrunner was like my signature car. It was Barracuda orange with a black vinyl top. What a ride!
