What Oil to Use?

 

Why is it important to use the correct oil in your car?

Using the correct oil in your car is important. It helps ensure the best performance for your engine and makes your engine last longer. The oil works as a lubricant. It keeps the moving parts of the engine from grinding against each other and causing damage.

Different engines need different types of oil depending on their design, size, and use. Using the wrong type of oil or an oil with incorrect viscosity (thickness) can lead to engine damage and reduced performance. Using an oil that is too thick may cause the engine to work harder and reduce fuel efficiency. Using an oil that is too thin may not provide adequate lubrication and protection.

Using the wrong oil may also void your car's warranty. Manufacturers require specific oil types and viscosities for their engines.

In summary, using the correct oil in your car is important for several reasons. Optimal engine performance, longevity, fuel efficiency, and avoiding potential warranty issues are some of the main reasons.

See this video about a BMW that was using the incorrect oil!

 https://youtu.be/cT2gfYsQrTY

How Often Should I Change the Oil on my Car?

 

You may be wondering: How often should I change my car's oil? The frequency can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the type of engine oil used. It's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations listed in the owner's manual.

Before, everyone knew to change the oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. The technology in Engine oil has advanced. Better engine have been designed and produced. Both of these have resulted in longer oil change intervals.

Most automakers now recommend oil changes between 7,500 to 10,000 miles, or every 6 to 12 months. That is for normal driving conditions. If you drive in extreme heat or cold, or in dusty areas, or frequent short trips, you may need to change your oil more often. Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every 3 to 6 months, as recommended by many manufacturers.

Synthetic oil may allow for longer oil change intervals than conventional oil. Synthetic oil generally lasts longer and provides better engine protection. It is best to consult your vehicle's manual for the recommended oil change interval for your specific make and model. It's important to check your oil level and top it off as needed, regardless of the oil change interval. Maintaining your vehicle's oil can help ensure its longevity and performance.

The team at My Auto Works can help you determine how often your vehicle's oil needs changed. Click here to learn or or make an appointment!

https://www.myautoworks.com/

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?

• The most common reason for a car to shake is because of tires.  If the tires are out of balance, then the steering wheel can shake.

  

• Sometimes brake rotors can be the cause of shaking, caused by brake rotors being "out of round." 

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  Another problem that can cause shaking is when a brake caliper sticks on.  The vibrating will get very bad the faster you go, and you will also smell a burning odor when you stop.
  
  

  

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Why Is My Car Overheating?

It's not fun when your Vehicle Overheats, and you may be wondering, "Why is my Car Overheating?" There are a few common reasons why your Vehicle can Overheat. One important thing to keep in mind is that the best thing to do if your Car Overheats, is to let it cool off! Pull over if needed. Driving "In the Red Zone" can do serious damage to your vehicle. Here are common reasons of Overheating:

• Stuck Thermostat. The Thermostat regulates your engine temperature. Sometimes the Thermostat can get stuck closed, which restricts Coolant flow.
• Low Engine Coolant Level. An Engine Coolant line or seal leak decreases the Coolant level in the system. If the Coolant Level is too low, it prevents proper cooling.
• Water Pump failure.  If the Water Pump fails, then it can't circulate the engine coolant to remove excessive heat.
• Radiator Restriction. If Coolant / Antifreeze can’t flow through your radiator, the heat gets trapped in the engine.
• Restricted Heater Core. If the heater core gets restricted, coolant flow is also restricted.
• Blown Head Gasket. A Blown Head Gasket can be the cause or the result of car overheating issues. 

Keeping up on your Vehicle's Maintenance can prevent Overheating issues. The ASE Certified Mechanics at My Auto Works will do a complimentary ProTech check each time you are in. The ProTech Check will help spot some of these problems, and help avoid costly repairs.

Click here to make an appointment at My Auto Works!

Why Does My Car Squeal When I Start it up?

You may be wondering, Why Does My Car Squeal When I Start it up? There are several reasons it could be Squealing, but the usual cause is your vehicle's Belts. If the Belts are Worn or Cracked, they can Slip, which makes a Squealing or Screeching Noise. If the car (and Belt) is cold and/or dew covered, slippage is more of a problem until the rubber warms up and the belt fits tighter on the pulleys. It's best to get your car inspected frequently (at each oil change is best!) to prevent belts wearing and possibly breaking. At My Auto Works in Woodland, we do a free Pro Tech Check with every vehicle to make sure your car stays in top shape and make you aware of any safety concerns.

Why Is My Engine Running Rough?

 You may be wondering, "Why is my Engine Running Rough?" One common reason is that the Air Filter is Dirty and Plugged Up. When the Air Filter is Dirty, Air is restricted through the Filter. The decrease in air causes the Engine to run Rich or Rough, meaning there is too much Fuel going through with not enough air mixed in. Checking the Air Filter at regular oil intervals is important to keep your Engine at peak performance. At My Auto Works, we inspect the air filter as part of our free Pro Tech Check on most vehicles.   

The Air Filter on the Left is used, On the Right is a New Filter

Why Do My Brakes Grind?

“Why do my brakes grind” is a common problem that we hear. Grinding Brakes could be caused by several things that are best checked out by a Certified Mechanic in case it’s a serious issue. Grinding Brakes could be from Worn out Brake Pads, when the metal from the Brake Pad is rubbing against the metal Brake Rotor. In that case, the Brake Pads should be replaced, and possibly the Brake Rotors as well. Brakes could Grind due to debris that is trapped in-between the Brake Rotor and the Brake Pad. Brake Grinding Noise could also be due to poor quality Brake Pads. Broken Shims are another causing factor in Brake Grind problems. The ASE Certified Technicians at My Auto Works would be happy to determine whether it’s a minor or major brake problem.