Oil Change Fairfax VA

Oil Change Fairfax VA

Oil Change Fairfax VA

Imagine driving down the road when the oil change reminder light comes on your car's dashboard. You know this light means it's time for an oil change, but what does that mean? Engine oil plays a critical role in keeping your car's engine components lubricated and protected, which helps them to operate smoothly and efficiently. It also helps to keep the engine cool and clean. This article will discuss the importance of engine oil, its functions, and the different types of car engine oils available, as well as help you identify the signs indicating your car needs an oil change.

What is engine oil?

Engine oil, often referred to as engine lubricant or motor oil, answers to several names, yet its fundamental purpose remains paramount: guaranteeing the seamless operation of your car's engine. It typically combines base oil and specific additive compounds for various purposes. It can help lubricate engine parts, maintain optimal motor temperature, clean and contain dust contaminants, reduce friction, and protect against excessive engine wear and tear. However, modern engine oils have evolved to enhance engine performance and fuel efficiency, paving the way for the emergence of synthetic blends and synthetic engine oil formulations.

What does engine oil do?

Modern engine oils use oil additive compounds and dispersants such as detergent, antioxidants, viscosity index improvers, corrosion inhibitors, friction modifiers, and antiwear additives. These additive compounds serve several purposes, such as providing adequate protection and delaying engine wear and tear. It also removes the dirt and dust contaminants from the engine with the help of dispersants. It also prevents acid buildup, corrosion, and sludge from forming on the engine parts. 

Why is a motor oil's ability to clean important?

Every time your engine runs, combustion byproducts mix with the engine oil and pollute it. If these contaminants are not removed, they can settle and form sludge and deposits in the engine. Using low-quality motor oil, neglecting to change your oil, and maintenance issues can also lead to sludge buildup in your engine. When your engine's components and oil passages are dirty, it can lead to a decline in your vehicle's performance, efficiency, and overall quality. Additionally, these deposits act as an insulating barrier, trapping heat within your engine. This is why using motor oil the manufacturers recommend oil is always best. When you visit Ourisman Fairfax Toyota, we only use OEM oil specifically formulated for your vehicle. 

Are there different types of engine oil?

You now know what engine oil does. Let's look at some common types of engine oil, namely, conventional oil, synthetic blend oil, and synthetic oil. Conventional oil is the standard motor oil manufactured from raw crude oil. It tends to be less refined than its alternatives and does not provide adequate protection against varying engine temperatures. Its primary function is to act as a lubricant for your engine components. Synthetic blend oil is also commonly known as synthetic blend motor oil. As its name suggests, it's manufactured from crude oil and synthetic ingredients. Synthetic engine oil is entirely factory-made and is a lot more consistent and better suited for your car. Not to mention, it's also stable under most engine temperatures and has a high viscosity. Synthetic engine oil is a highly lubricating oil that protects your engine components, and delays wear and tear. 

How to pick the right motor oil for your car?

The market offers tons of engine oil varieties to choose from, which can be confusing at times. You want to select one with engine oil additive compounds and dispersants such as antioxidants, viscosity index improvers, viscosity modifiers, friction modifiers, and detergents. Choosing the right engine oil for your car's engine will significantly affect its oil performance and fuel economy. Your best bet is to consult your car's engine manufacturer's manual about your oil needs. You can also ask one of the friendly technicians at Ourisman Fairfax Toyota. Our factory-certified technicians help you maintain your vehicle and keep it running at peak performance. 

Visit Ourisman Automotive of Virginia for your next oil change!

Quality engine oil is a good investment for your car because it provides much-needed TLC to the engine parts. It helps to keep the engine running smoothly and prevent wear and tear. That's why following a regular oil change schedule is always important. Ourisman Automotive of Virginia offers the best possible car repair and maintenance services and competitive and upfront pricing. We can help you choose the right oil for your car and schedule your next oil change. This way, your vehicle will always be in perfect shape.

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