Oil Change
We’ve all heard the saying “oil is the lifeblood of your car” and there’s a reason for that. Oil reduces friction between your engine’s various components and cools and cleans your engine so your car can run smoothly. Yet over time, engine oil becomes less effective as it picks up dirt and grime from combustion, increasing the risk of overheating and engine damage. An oil change is always included in a regular car service. But if you think the state of your oil could use a little extra attention, NC Autos is happy to help.
You should check your oil once a month – more for older cars or if you drive frequently. The dipstick under your bonnet will tell you if your oil is low. To test, take it out, wipe it clean, insert it again and check the oil level against the markers.
Healthy new engine oil is light brown in colour, while oil that’s not so healthy often has a burnt smell or flecks in it. Engine warning lights, reduced vehicle performance or overheating can also be signs that an oil change is in order.
A mobile mechanic in the Moreton Bay region, NC Autos can meet you at a convenient location for a car service and oil change so you don’t have to travel. We replace your engine oil at a fair price while providing a first-class quality of service.
How often should you change your oil?
How regularly you should change your oil depends on a number of factors: the age of your car, your type of engine, how much driving you do in stop-start conditions. A good ballpark figure is every 18,000 kms or every six months for older vehicles and every 10,000 – 15,000 kms or every 12 months for newer vehicles. Most drivers make it easy for themselves by scheduling a regular service, which always includes an oil change as part of the process.
Sometimes you might miss your regular scheduled service. While this isn’t usually a huge problem, leaving oil in your car for more than 12,000 kms can be dangerous. The longer you leave your oil, the more you raise the risk of everything from reduced fuel economy to an engine that locks up and needs replacing. The longer old oil sits in the sump, the thicker and sludgier it gets and the less efficient it is at keeping your engine running.
Signs your car needs an oil change
While you should check your oil frequently with the dipstick under the hood, there are some signs that commonly arise to let you know it’s time to change the oil in your car:
- Your oil is dark and murky instead of translucent and clear. It may also have a dirty or burnt smell.
- The check engine light or oil light comes on.
- Thick, dark or blue smoke comes out of your exhaust pipe, signs that your engine is burning oil.
- You hear knocking, ticking, grinding or other strange noises coming out of the engine, indicating that the parts are failing to lubricate properly.
- You notice an increase in your fuel consumption, indicating your engine has to work harder with less oil.
It’s very common for drivers to neglect their oil, skip their oil change or use the wrong kind of oil, all of which can cause the engine to overheat and sustain damage. If any of these symptoms sound familiar to you, take action as soon as possible.
What’s involved in the oil change process?
While every mechanic will slightly adjust their approach based on your needs, the oil change process remains more or less the same. First we’ll run your car until we warm up the oil. Then we’ll lift the vehicle using a jack so we can access the bottom of it. We’ll use a hex socket to remove the sump plug, waiting five to 10 minutes for the oil to drain before putting the plug and washer back on. At the same time we also change your oil filter, which is another important part of your regular car service.
We’ll refill the oil to the proper level for your car and then turn it off while we check the sump plug for leaks. Then we’ll check the dipstick to make sure the volume of oil in your sump is correct.
Changing your oil is a fairly simple process, but there are good reasons to leave it up to your mechanic instead of taking on the task yourself. A mechanic knows what kind of oil to use, the filter components, how to install and maintain filter components and how to dispose of oil, which can be a fire hazard if thrown away incorrectly.
Check your oil with NC Autos
For a mobile mechanic that provides an oil change at a time and place that works for you, contact NC Autos on 07 5208 8962 or make an online booking.
Getting your oil changed has never been easier with NC Autos’ mobile servicing, now available across Caboolture, Chermside, and Warner, QLD. Our professional team comes directly to your home or workplace, saving you time and hassle while ensuring your vehicle receives top-quality oil and filter changes. Whether you’re in the heart of Chermside, out in Warner, or commuting from Caboolture, NC Autos brings expert car care to your doorstep—making regular maintenance simple, convenient, and reliable.