The Importance of Regular Oil Changes During Summer and How to Do Them Yourself

Summer can be tough on your car’s engine, which is why it’s important to make sure you’re keeping up with regular oil changes. Not only does fresh oil help to lubricate your engine’s moving parts, but it also helps to keep the engine cool and prevent buildup of harmful deposits. In this article, we’ll explain why regular oil changes are so important during the summer months and provide some tips on how you can do them yourself.

Why Regular Oil Changes Are Important During Summer

As temperatures rise during the summer, your engine is working harder to keep up with demand. Hot weather can cause oil to break down more quickly, which can lead to decreased engine performance and even engine damage. Dirty oil can also cause problems, as it can clog your engine’s oil passages and prevent oil from reaching where it’s needed most. Regular oil changes help to keep your engine running smoothly and reduce the risk of costly repairs.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

The frequency with which you should change your oil depends on a variety of factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, how often you drive it, and the conditions under which you drive. Most experts recommend changing your oil every 5,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. However, you should always consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

How to Change Your Oil Yourself

If you’re comfortable working on cars and have some basic tools, you may be able to change your oil yourself. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Gather your supplies. You’ll need new oil, an oil filter, an oil filter wrench, a socket wrench, a drain pan, and a funnel.
2. Locate the oil drain plug. This is usually located underneath the car, near the front or middle.
3. Position the drain pan underneath the drain plug and remove the plug using a socket wrench.
4. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan.
5. Remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench.
6. Apply a small amount of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
7. Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand.
8. Refill the engine with the recommended amount of new oil, using a funnel.
9. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
10. Check the oil level and add more if necessary.

Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your car running smoothly and preventing engine damage. During the summer months, it’s especially important to make sure you’re keeping up with oil changes, as hot weather can cause oil to break down more quickly. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can save money by changing your oil yourself. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and dispose of the old oil properly.