Category: Oil and Filter

Why Regular Oil Changes Are Crucial for Your Vehicle’s Long-Term Health

Maintaining your vehicle is one of the most important things you can do to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Among routine maintenance tasks, regular oil changes are arguably the most critical. Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car, performing several vital roles to keep everything running smoothly. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to make sure your car gets the care it deserves, starting with professional, prompt, and reliable oil change services.

What Does Engine Oil Do For Your Car?

Engine oil works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your vehicle operating efficiently. Here’s a closer look at the three core roles it plays:

Lubrication: Your engine is composed of many moving parts, including pistons, crankshafts, and valves. These components must work together at very high speeds and under intense pressure. Engine oil reduces friction between these parts, preventing them from grinding against each other, which can cause damage and wear.
Temperature Control: As your engine runs, it generates a significant amount of heat. Oil helps regulate this heat, transferring it away from the engine components and preventing overheating. A well-lubricated engine runs cooler, which protects the internal parts from excessive wear.
Damage Prevention: Over time, dirt, debris, and microscopic metal particles from engine wear accumulate in your oil. Clean oil contains special additives that help suspend these contaminants, keeping them from causing damage or clogging important engine pathways.

What Happens When You Neglect Oil Changes?

Skipping regular oil changes might not seem like a big deal at first, but the consequences can add up quickly. Here are some of the issues that can arise when you neglect this essential maintenance:

Poor Engine Performance: Old, dirty oil loses its ability to lubricate effectively. This increases friction, which places added strain on your engine and leads to sluggish performance.
Higher Fuel Consumption: Without proper lubrication, your engine has to work harder to perform the same tasks, which means burning more fuel. Regular oil changes are one of the easiest ways to keep your vehicle running efficiently.
Costly Repairs: Dirty or degraded oil can lead to severe engine damage, including issues like overheating, corrosion, or even complete engine failure. These types of repairs are far more expensive than the cost of sticking to a regular oil change schedule.

Why Choose Northside Auto Repair for Your Oil Change?

At Northside Auto Repair, we don’t just change your oil; we take the time to ensure everything is done right. Our team of ASE-certified technicians uses the latest diagnostic tools and top-quality products to offer quick and thorough oil change services that help extend the life of your engine.

When you work with us, you’ll get more than just fresh oil. We’ll perform a free courtesy vehicle inspection to assess your car’s overall health. Our experts are trained to spot potential issues early, so you can address them before they become costly problems.

Plus, we understand that taking care of your vehicle should be affordable. That’s why we’re excited to offer first-time customers a 10% discount (up to $500) on repairs.

Protect Your Vehicle Today

Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or planning a road trip, regular oil changes are essential for keeping your car safe and dependable. Don’t wait until an issue arises to take care of your vehicle. At Northside Auto Repair in Albuquerque, we’re committed to providing exceptional vehicle maintenance with a customer-first approach.

Schedule your oil change today! Give us a call at (505) 823-2226 or visit our shop at 7601-A San Pedro NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Don’t forget to ask about our first-time customer discount. Your car will thank you!

The All Important Oil Change – A Must for Your Vehicle’s Health

At Northside Auto Repair know that an oil change might seem like a mundane task. But have you ever wondered about the last time your vehicle’s oil was changed? Or when it’s due for an oil change and filter? Well, much depends on whether you’re using synthetic oil, a blend, or standard oil.

Each type of oil comes with its unique properties. Starting with conventional motor oil, it is refined from crude oil extracted from the ground. It provides standard protection against wear and tear, and is often recommended for older vehicles because of its thicker consistency. However, it requires more frequent changes – every 3 months or 3600 miles.

Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is engineered in a lab. It offers superior engine wear protection, stays slippery at colder temperatures, and is less volatile, meaning there is less loss of the oil to the engine’s exhaust stream. This oil type can go for longer periods between changes, typically 6 months or 5000 miles.

While synthetic oil generally protects better over a longer time, it flows more smoothly than conventional mineral oils. This can be beneficial for an older engine, but it doesn’t mean you should extend the intervals between oil changes indefinitely. Even top ASE mechanics have found that with synthetics, it’s better to change more frequently than not.

If you live in a windy, dirty environment, such as Albuquerque, or drive on dirt roads regularly, all of your fluids, including oil, should be maintained at a shorter interval. The impurities from these conditions can infiltrate your oil and reduce its effectiveness.

So, remember, your vehicle’s health largely depends on regular oil changes. Whether you use conventional or synthetic oil, keep track of when your vehicle is due for its next oil change. It’s a simple act that can greatly extend the life of your vehicle.

Stay tuned to Northside Auto Repair for more tips on maintaining your vehicle’s health!

Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall: The Importance of Filter Changes

Before the warmth of September in New Mexico gives way to the cooler, crisp breezes of October, it’s time to start thinking about your vehicle’s maintenance needs. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to ensure your car is ready to embrace the fall season’s fresh air with open windows and optimal performance. One key aspect of fall maintenance is getting ahead of your vehicle’s filter changes. Let’s explore the significance of updating your cabin air filter, engine filter, and oil filter as we transition into autumn.

Clear the Air with a New Cabin Air Filter

Throughout the hot summer months, your vehicle’s cabin air filter has been working diligently to keep dust and pollen at bay. These particles can accumulate over time, leading to reduced air quality inside your car. As fall approaches, replacing your cabin air filter ensures that you and your passengers can enjoy a cleaner, fresher atmosphere free from summer’s residual allergens. This simple change enhances your comfort and health, making those scenic autumn drives all the more enjoyable.

Protect Your Engine with an Engine Filter Replacement

Your engine filter plays a crucial role in safeguarding your vehicle’s delicate internal components. Dust and exhaust particles from the summer can settle into your engine, potentially affecting its performance and longevity. By replacing the engine filter, you provide a clean start for your engine as it transitions into the cooler months. This proactive measure helps maintain optimal engine function, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the fall and beyond.

Regular Oil and Oil Filter Changes: A Fall Maintenance Standard

Oil changes are a cornerstone of vehicle maintenance, and fall is the perfect time to ensure your engine’s lubrication system is in top condition. The oil filter is essential in trapping contaminants and preventing them from circulating through your engine. Regular oil and oil filter changes help extend your vehicle’s life and improve fuel efficiency. As temperatures drop, fresh oil and a new oil filter will keep your engine running smoothly, reducing wear and tear during the cooler months.

Embrace Proactive Car Care

Being proactive with your vehicle’s maintenance not only enhances its performance but also ensures your safety and comfort on the road. At Northside Auto Repair, we believe in taking steps today to prevent issues tomorrow. By prioritizing filter changes, you’re investing in the longevity and reliability of your vehicle, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and adventure that New Mexico’s fall season has to offer.

Schedule your fall maintenance appointment with us today, and let our expert technicians at Northside Auto Repair keep your vehicle running at its best. Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is prepared for whatever autumn may bring.

Improve Fuel Economy with Service

Maintaining your car or truck will make it more fuel efficient. That means it uses less fuel, and you save money. When we think of things that rob us of fuel economy, we can think of them in two ways: increased friction and inefficient fuel combustion.

Friction: Anything that increases friction increases drag or load on the engine. The engine has to work harder to overcome the drag, which takes more fuel. The first thing that comes to mind is engine oil. Low oil means there’s not enough to fully lubricate the engine, so there’s more friction. The wrong viscosity and grade of oil can also adversely affect fuel economy. Dirty oil won’t lubricate as well as clean oil. The same principles apply to transmission fluid. Getting your oil and fluids changed and your car serviced regularly will help maintain optimal fuel efficiency.

Inefficient fuel combustion: This happens when fuel isn’t burning completely in the engine. It’s also affected by factors like spark plugs, air filters, and fuel injectors. When these things aren’t working properly, it can lead to poor fuel economy. So it’s important to get your car serviced regularly to keep everything running smoothly. By following these simple tips, you can help improve your car’s fuel efficiency and save money in the long run.