When you book an oil and filter change, you can ensure the optimal health and performance of your car’s engine.
Read on and find out what an oil and filter change is, how much it costs and what happens if you don’t change the oil and filter when needed.
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What Is an Oil and Filter Change?
An oil and filter change consists of a full drain and refill of your engine oil and the fitting of a brand-new oil filter.
Your car’s oil filter removes contaminants from your engine oil, helping to reduce wear and tear of vital engine components.
Engine oil similarly lubricates and protects the moving parts within the engine, so it is essential that you change your oil and filter at timely intervals.
What Happens During an Oil and Filter Change?
During an oil and filter change, a mechanic will first remove the sump plug and drain the oil.
The sump plug is the bit on the underside of your car which keeps the oil in your vehicle.
The mechanic will remove the oil filter, before replacing the sump plug and oil filter.
They can then refill the oil to the correct level, using the right engine oil for your car.
The process itself can take as little as 30 minutes to complete.
Why Should You Book an Oil and Filter Change?
An oil and filter change can extend the lifespan of your car.
You should book an oil change regularly to keep your car in top condition.
This small expense can save you spending on much larger repairs in the future.
How Much Is an Oil and Filter Change (UK)?
When you book an oil and filter change through BookMyGarage, this can cost you as little as £94, with prices varying depending on where your garage is based in the UK.
Does My Oil Need Changing?
Engine oil can last between 3,000 and 10,000 miles if you maintain your car well, and avoid aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving.
Your car may need an oil change if any of the following are true:
- Oil has turned dark
- Oil is coarse or gritty
- Increased engine noise
- Dirty exhaust smoke
- Illuminated oil warning light
Your oil may also need to be changed if the oil level keeps dropping even though you regularly top it up, or if you've noticed high mileage since the last oil change.
What Happens If You Don't Change the Oil and Filter?
If your oil levels are low or the oil is dirty, your engine management light may come on as you could encounter serious engine problems.
Oil goes bad – no matter how well-maintained your car is.
When dirt and debris mix with your oil, this can do damage to your vehicle’s vital components.
You may even void your car’s warranty if you don’t carry out this vital aspect of car maintenance.
Not to mention the increase in fuel consumption you are sure to notice.
Regularly changing the oil and filter can ensure your vehicle has high quality engine oil circulating for as long as possible.
