When was your last oil change? Not sure? Hey, that's not good. Changing your oil every 3,000 miles (5,000 kilometers), or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer based on your driving conditions, is vital for your vehicle and can help you avoid costly problems. With each oil change, the oil filter may also need to be replaced. Ask for an oil change and a trained Midas technician will select the correct viscosity grade oil for your vehicle and perform oil and filter service. While you’re there, ask for a Midas Touch™ Courtesy Check, including a visual check of the following items: - Engine air filter
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
We'll also walk you through your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for replacing these vital fluids and filters.
To find out more about oils, fluids, and filters, visit the Midas Auto Education Center.
Ask a Midas Mechanic - Oil changes
Q: I’ve heard different things about how often to change my oil. What’s the best guide? A: A good rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles for an oil change. However, follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. They will specify the frequency for an oil change for your driving conditions. The frequency of your oil and filter changes should follow those recommendations. Q: I’ve got an older car, how important is it to change oil as frequently? A: An oil change puts fresh oil into your car. More importantly, an oil change drains out the old oil that can become filled with dust, metal particles or other contaminants. As your oil ages, outside items make their way in. Without an oil change, this contamination can lower your gas mileage or in the worse case, cause your engine to fail. An oil change is a great preventive step to help keep you car running clean and smooth. Make sure to change your oil filter as well, it helps to remove impurities from the oil and the engine. Q: This may be a dumb question, but what do the numbers mean on oil, and do I need to care which is used? A: Good question. It’s something that most people probably aren’t familiar with. The first number (such as 5W) indicates the low-temperature (Winter) viscosity. Viscosity simply is a measure of an oil’s ability to flow and protect at certain temperatures. The lower the number, the easier the oil will flow (and protect) in cold weather when starting your car. The second number (such as 30, in 5W-30), indicates the thickness of the oil at operating (high) temperatures. When you get an oil change, you should follow your manufacturer’s recommendations. Take a look at your owner’s manual before your next trip to Midas for an oil change.
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