Oil Changes
By following the oil change and fluid replacement schedules that Nissan recommends, you can avoid problems in the years ahead.
The Fluids in Your Car
Engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant and more – are the vehicle’s driving force. They lubricate, exert pressure so you can stop, cool your engine and facilitate the transmission of power so your vehicle’s performance is at its peak.
Benefits of Oil & Fluid Changes
- Your cooling system works more efficiently when it has regular coolant changes.
- Extends the life of your car by ensuring that the right engine oil is used.
- Your brakes perform better and last longer when the fluid is changed regularly.
- Replacing the transmission fluid as recommended helps reduce the likelihood of expensive problems.
- Using the right engine oil helps prevent overheating, minimizes friction and improves gas mileage.
Oil change 45 min or less
A pit stop freaturing free wifi and coffee.
Motor Oil Basics
The right type and quality engine oil is vital to the health and performance of your car. Designed to reduce the friction of metal parts moving against each other, engine oil also has a role in the absorption of the by-products of combustion and minimizes the oxidation of the engine’s components. It performs these tasks under a great deal of pressure and heat.
Viscosity is one of engine oil’s most important qualities. This refers to the oil’s resistance to motion as well as its thickness. Its viscosity depends on the chemical properties of the oil. This, in turn, determines how resistant to heat the oil is. The viscosity level dips as the temperature in your engine rises. Oil that has a high viscosity index is better at retaining that viscosity as the temperatures rise.
While there are many different types of engine oils available, there are three primary categories: fully synthetic, semi synthetic and mineral or natural. Each of these three types is not necessarily the best choice for your car.
Deciphering an Engine Oil Container
On each container of engine oil, there is a rating that looks something like this: 5W20. The “cold” viscosity rating is determine by the first number of that rating. The lower this name is, the more easily your engine will start in cold temperatures. The “hot” viscosity rating is indicated by the number after the “W.” It is at this point that the oil will become thinner as it heats up.
Basic Overview of the Types of Oil:
Fully Synthetic:
- Improves engine power and performance
- Quickly gets to the engine’s moving parts
- Protects engine from deposit buildup and wear
- Saves fuel
- Improves engine starting and circulation of oil during freezing temperatures
Semi-synthetic:
- Approximately three times better when it comes to the reduction of engine wear
- Doesn’t need to be changed as often
- Better protection compared to synthetics
- Offers good protection in about 10 minutes after starting
Mineral:
- Needs to be changed more frequently
- Offers basic protection for many different engines
When Should I Get an Oil Change?
Benefits of Other Fluids
Coolant Prevents Engine Overheating
The coolant in your car is a vital component and is designed to regulate the temperature of the engine. The typical coolant reservoir looks like a semi-transparent bottle with markings for “low” and “high” on it. It’s usually attached to the side of the engine. Get into the habit of regularly checking the fluid in this container to ensure that it always stays in between these two indicators. Make sure that you only check this fluid when the engine is cold.
Keep Gears Shifting Smoothly with Transmission Fluid
The smooth operation of your automatic transmission is dependent on its transmission fluid. Nearly all transmission fluids are red which can be helpful if a leak is suspected. Keeping the transmission fluid clean is accomplished by the presence of a filter. A check of the transmission fluid is the first thing you should do if you are experiencing poor shifting or if your car is not running smoothly. Low transmission fluid levels can lead to expensive transmission damage.
Brake Fluid Protects Your Stopping Power
Brake fluid is the component that delivers the effects of the pressures of the driver’s foot on the brake pedal to the master cylinder. The master cylinder then delivers that pressure to the calipers so they clamp against your disc brakes. When your brake fluid is fresh, this system works well. Brake fluid that is overheated, though, often boils which can lead to the production of gas bubbles. The result is often a “soft” brake pedal that makes it necessary for you to pump the brakes in order for them to work well. A regular check of your brake fluid can ensure that their performance is maintained.
If your vehicle needs any type of fluid servicing, we at East Charlotte Nissan are here to help!
Service Hours
- Monday – Friday: 7:30am to 6:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
Parts Hours
- Monday – Friday: 7:30am to 6:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am to 4:00pm
- Sunday: Closed