Oil Change Service near San Luis Obispo, CA

One routine car maintenance task you shouldn’t overlook is an oil change. If you’re not familiar with why, our team at Community Volkswagen of Santa Maria can inform you about the host of benefits exchanging this fluid entails. Continue reading to learn more.

The Importance of Oil Changes

Did you know that pressing the accelerator pedal of your car on Johnson Avenue engages countless parts making up the powertrain to spin, move up and down, and compress? Understandably, things get heated under the hood sooner or later due to all the friction generated from these activities. That’s why engine oil is needed as a lubricant to lessen the grinding and rubbing, which subsequently lowers the temperature of the motor. This way, your car’s energy source doesn’t have to work harder than it should, leading to better fuel efficiency. Moreover, an inadequately lubricated engine is prone to disrepair more quickly, since components will grate against each other and break easily. This is why topping off the motor oil regularly is crucial!

Warning Signs

To help you keep your vehicle in tip-top condition, here are some signs you should look out for that indicate the need for a fresh batch of engine fluid. First, if you hear abrasive sounds coming from your powertrain, this may be because lack of lubrication is forcing the parts within to scrape against each other sharply. Next, a burning smell emanating from the same part, not to mention smoke, can mean your motor is overheating due to insufficient oil. Finally, check the fluid level of your engine by opening up the hood and pulling out the oil dipstick. If the color of the liquid at the tip is dark, that means it’s time for you to visit our Service Department near San Luis Obispo.

Synthetic vs Conventional

When you come to our location for an oil change, you’ll be asked to choose between synthetic and conventional options. As its name suggests, the former is synthesized in a laboratory environment while the latter is refined from crude oil extracted from the earth. In part due to this sourcing difference, synthetic fluid is typically two to four times more expensive than its natural counterpart. While its cost may give you pause, it does last longer because of its superior chemical stability. But that doesn’t mean conventional oil doesn’t do its job well, especially for older cars, as its slower flow is better suited for aging engines. Schedule your appointment today to hit Meadow Park with a rejuvenated powertrain!