Buying a new car is exciting, but it also means taking care of it so it runs smoothly. One important part of car maintenance is changing the engine oil. However, new car owners often make some common mistakes that can actually harm the engine.
In this guide, we’ll go over the most common engine oil mistakes and how to avoid them. By learning these tips, you can keep your car running great and save money on repairs!
Common Oil Change Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring the Oil Change Light
One big mistake car owners make is ignoring the oil change reminder light. This light pops up to tell you it’s time to change your oil. Ignoring it can damage your engine and might lead to expensive repairs later. So, when you see that light, don’t put it off—get your oil changed right away!
Using the Wrong Oil
Using the wrong type of oil can seriously mess up your engine. Not all oils are the same, and picking the wrong one can make your engine work harder or wear out faster. To make sure you’re using the right oil, check your car’s manual or ask a mechanic.
Not Checking the Oil Level
Just changing the oil isn’t enough—you also need to check the oil level regularly. Driving with low oil can wear out your engine quicker and cause damage. Make it a habit to check your oil level every month and add more if needed.
Not Tightening the Drain Plug Properly
If you don’t tighten the drain plug correctly after changing the oil, it can leak. Also, forcing it too much can damage the threads. Always follow the instructions and use the right tools to make sure it’s tight but not overdone.
Forgetting to Reset the Oil Change Light
After you change the oil, don’t forget to reset the oil change light. If you skip this step, the light might come on too soon, making you think you need another oil change. Check your car’s manual to find out how to reset it.
Skipping Other Maintenance Tasks
Oil changes are important, but don’t forget about other car maintenance! Things like tire rotations, brake checks, and fluid inspections also help keep your car running well. Follow the schedule in your car’s manual to keep everything in good shape.
Trying DIY Oil Changes Without the Right Know-How
Changing your oil can save money, but if you don’t know how to do it properly, you could damage your engine. Plus, you need to dispose of old oil safely. If you’re not sure about the process, it’s better to let a professional handle it.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll keep your car running smoothly and avoid unnecessary repairs. Trust Fubex Lubricants for top-quality oils to keep your engine happy!
Why Are Oil Changes Important?
Oil changes are really important for keeping your car’s engine in good shape. If you change your oil regularly, it helps your engine by:
- Keeping the moving parts slippery so they don’t rub and wear out
- Getting rid of dirt and sludge that can build up
- Helping your car use fuel more efficiently
- Making your engine last longer
Changing your oil on time keeps your car running well and helps you avoid expensive engine problems!
Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Car Engine Oil
Changing your car’s engine oil is important to keep it running well and lasting a long time. But sometimes, people make mistakes when doing it, which can actually damage the engine. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using the Wrong Oil
Not all engine oils are the same! If you use the wrong type, your car might not run as well, and it could even damage the engine.
Tip: Always check your car’s manual or ask a mechanic to make sure you’re using the right oil, especially if you live somewhere hot, like Abu Dhabi.
Skipping the Oil Filter
The oil filter catches dirt and gunk from the oil. If you don’t change it, the filter can get clogged, and dirty oil can hurt your engine.
Tip: Replace the oil filter every time you change the oil to keep the engine clean.
Too Much or Too Little Oil
Adding too much oil can cause leaks, while not adding enough can make the engine overheat. Both are bad for your car.
Tip: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. It should be between the “min” and “max” marks.
Not Warming Up the Engine
If you don’t warm up your car before changing the oil, the old oil might not drain properly, leaving behind dirt.
Tip: Run the engine for about 5 to 10 minutes to warm up the oil so it drains easier.
Not Tightening the Drain Plug
If you don’t tighten the drain plug enough, oil can leak out. But if you make it too tight, you could damage the plug or the oil pan.
Tip: Tighten the plug just right. If you’re not sure how tight, check the car’s manual or ask a mechanic.
Forgetting the Drain Gasket
The drain gasket helps seal the plug and keep oil from leaking. Reusing an old one or forgetting it completely can cause leaks.
Tip: Always use a new gasket when you change the oil.
Skipping Regular Oil Changes
If you wait too long between oil changes, the oil gets dirty and doesn’t protect the engine as well. This can cause engine damage over time.
Tip: Follow your car manufacturer’s schedule for oil changes, especially in hot places like Abu Dhabi.
Ignoring the Check Engine Light
Sometimes, the check engine light means there’s an oil problem, like low oil pressure. Ignoring it can make things worse.
Tip: If the light comes on after changing the oil, get your car checked right away.
Using Cheap Oil
Cheap, low-quality oil might seem like a good deal, but it doesn’t protect your engine as well. This can lead to more wear and tear.
Tip: Use high-quality oil that matches your car’s needs. It’s worth it to keep your engine safe.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can make sure your car’s engine stays healthy and runs well for a long time!
Read More:
- Can Motorcycle Engine Oil Reduce Engine Noise?
- Can Motorcycle Engine Oil Improve Engine Longevity?
- When to Change Gear Oil of Car?
How Does Motor Oil Work in Your Car?
Motor oil is really important for keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. It does a few key things that help your engine work better and last longer. Here’s how it works:
- Lubrication: Motor oil makes the engine parts slippery, so they move easily without rubbing against each other and wearing out.
- Cooling: It helps cool down the engine by taking away some of the heat.
- Cleaning: Motor oil picks up dirt and tiny metal bits, keeping the engine cleaner.
- Sealing: It creates a thin barrier between parts, which helps them fit together better and run more efficiently.
- Protection: Motor oil helps stop rust and corrosion inside the engine.
If you use the wrong kind of oil, it can mess up these important jobs, which can cause problems and might even damage your engine over time.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Oil in Your Car?
Using the wrong motor oil in your car can cause a lot of problems. Here are some of the main issues you might face:
Bad Engine Performance
If the oil is too thick, it won’t move through the engine easily, which makes it harder for the parts to work together. If it’s too thin, it doesn’t protect the parts enough, which leads to more friction. This can cause:
- Slower acceleration
- Less power when driving
- A shaky or rough engine when it’s idling
Over time, using the wrong oil can wear out engine parts, which could mean costly repairs.
More Engine Wear and Tear
The motor oil acts like a protective layer between moving parts, helping them slide smoothly. If you use the wrong oil, this layer might be too thick or too thin, causing parts to rub against each other. This can lead to:
- Overheating
- Loud, clunky engine noises
- Damage to important parts like the crankshaft or pistons
In really bad cases, the engine parts can get so worn out that you might need to replace the engine or spend a lot on repairs.
Worse Gas Mileage
The right oil helps your engine run smoothly, which saves gas. Using the wrong oil makes the engine work harder to move the oil around. This uses more fuel and lowers your car’s gas mileage.
- Thicker oil can make the engine burn more gas.
- You’ll end up spending more money at the gas station.
Overheating Problems
Motor oil helps cool down the engine by absorbing heat. If you use the wrong oil, it might not do this well, which can cause the engine to overheat. This can lead to:
- Parts are getting too hot and cracking.
- Oil turns into a thick sludge that clogs the engine.
- Total engine failure if it gets too hot
More Pollution
Cars are made to use specific oils to keep emissions low. The wrong oil can cause:
- More smoke from the exhaust
- Extra pollution and harmful gases
- Failing an emissions test
To keep your car running well, always use the right oil. It helps protect your engine, saves gas, and keeps pollution levels low.
How to Tell If You Used the Wrong Oil in Your Car
Sometimes, you might accidentally put the wrong oil in your car. Here are some signs that might mean you used the wrong oil:
- Strange engine noises: You might hear knocking or ticking sounds.
- Worse gas mileage: Your car might use more fuel than usual.
- Overheating: The engine gets too hot.
- Oil leaks: You might see oil dripping under your car.
- Check Engine Light: This warning light might turn on.
- Slow performance: Your car feels sluggish or not as powerful.
- More exhaust smoke: You notice extra smoke coming from the exhaust.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to change the oil right away and use the correct type your car needs.
What to Do If You Use the Wrong Oil
If you think you put the wrong oil in your car, here’s what you should do:
- Check your car manual: Find out the right type of oil for your car.
- Drain the old oil: Get rid of the wrong oil completely.
- Replace the oil filter: This helps remove any leftover bad oil.
- Add the right oil: Use the oil that’s recommended for your car.
- Start the engine: Let it run for a few minutes so the new oil can move around.
- Watch how your car runs: Make sure everything is working normally.
- Get help if needed: If the problem keeps happening, visit a mechanic.
Using the right oil is super important for keeping your car running well!
Conclusion
Taking care of your car’s engine oil is super important to keep your vehicle running smoothly. By avoiding common mistakes like ignoring the oil change light, using the wrong oil, or forgetting to check the oil level, you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your engine healthy.
Remember, using the right oil and following a regular maintenance routine will keep your car performing at its best. Stay proactive, and your car will thank you with a long, smooth ride!
FAQs
Q1: Does the type of oil affect how often I need an oil change?
Yes, it can! Synthetic oils usually last longer than conventional oils, so you might not need to change them as often. However, other things like how you drive and your engine’s condition also matter. Always check your car’s manual to know how often to change the oil.
Q2: Why did my oil warning light come on?
Your oil warning light might come on because of low oil, a bad oil pump, a faulty sensor, or even a blockage in the oil system. If it lights up, safely turn off your engine right away. Driving with low oil pressure can seriously damage your engine.
