AUTOMOTIVE EXPERTS
GEORGETOWN'S HOMETOWN AUTO REPAIR - SERVING THE GEORGETOWN AREA SINCE 1990!
Oil Change
Lansdale Automotive oil changes deliver comprehensive preventative maintenance, protecting your investment and maximizing performance. As a full-service auto repair facility, our experts provide in-depth vehicle knowledge, going beyond basic oil changes. We meticulously inspect, check, fill, and clean crucial components to prevent problems. Trust Lansdale Automotive to safeguard your vehicle's longevity with expert care.
CHANGE
Oil with up to five (5) quarts of quality motor oil
Oil filter
INSPECT KEY COMPONENTS
- Brake fluid level (in transparent reservoirs)
- Serpentine belts
- Wiper blades
- Antifreeze/coolant reservoir levels
- Engine air filtration system
- Exterior lights
- Chassis (lubricate when applicable)
- CHECK/FILL
- Tire pressure
and multiple vital fluids:
- Transmission/transaxle fluid
- Differential fluid
- Transfer case fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Battery water (excluding sealed batteries)
Understanding Oil
Lansdale Automotive performs automotive services on numerous Georgetown vehicles daily. We assist each customer in choosing the ideal motor oil for their specific vehicle. This article addresses frequently asked questions to help you better understand motor oil.
Why does my vehicle even need oil?
Oil’s primary role is to keep some engine parts separated, preventing wear and damage. Engine oil also cools the engine by dissipating heat from combustion. Low oil levels can lead to increased engine temperature, so regular checks are crucial. Furthermore, motor oil cleans the engine as it lubricates, collecting dirt and combustion byproducts. Like a sponge, oil eventually becomes saturated. Once saturated, contaminants can no longer be held in suspension, leading to deposits like sludge. Regular oil changes remove these contaminants, ensuring a cleaner, smoother running engine.
When do I need an oil change? How do I choose the right type of oil?
Regular oil changes prevent harmful sludge buildup, a leading cause of engine problems. Oil change intervals depend on your vehicle, driving conditions, and driving habits. Consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended schedule and oil type, or visit Lansdale Automotive for expert advice.
What’s the difference between Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil?
A common misconception is that synthetic oil is entirely artificial. Modern synthetic oils are derived from refined and modified crude or natural oil to enhance performance. Today’s motor oils combine base oils with additives. Synthetic base oils are chemically engineered for superior performance under extreme conditions. Additives improve flow and lubrication in harsh environments. Conventional base oils are refined from crude oil and enhanced with additives. While synthetic oils offer superior performance, regular oil changes remain essential. Gasoline and diesel engines contaminate and stress the oil, eventually reducing the effectiveness of even the highest quality synthetic oil and its additives.
SAE 10W-30? SAE 5W-40? What are these numbers and letters?
Let's use SAE 10W-30 as an example. These numbers, from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), indicate the oil's viscosity, or how well it flows when the engine is cold and when it's hot. Always use the oil grade recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual. Most modern motor oils are multi-viscosity, like SAE 10W-30. The first number, with the "W" (for Winter), indicates how well the oil pumps in cold temperatures. The second number indicates how well the oil flows at higher engine temperatures. As your engine heats up, the oil thins. If it gets too thin, it can't properly protect moving parts. Motor oil needs to flow well when cold and maintain a protective film when hot. Using the wrong viscosity can damage your engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct oil grade. A quality multi-viscosity oil: * Keeps the engine clean by minimizing deposits * Reduces oil consumption * Resists oil thickening through oxidation control * Improves gas mileage in lower viscosity grades (5W20, 5W30, and 10W30) by reducing friction * Provides excellent anti-wear protection Common multi-viscosity grades include: 5W20, 5W30, 10W30, 10W40, 15W40, and 20W50.