The Key Steps for a Successful Oil Change and a Better Performing Engine
Introduction
The oil change is a vital task to ensure the longevity and performance of your engine. Clean oil ensures optimal lubrication, reduces wear on parts, and contributes to controlled fuel consumption.
💡 But how do you perform a proper oil change? What mistakes should you avoid and which steps must be followed?
👉 In this article, discover the essential steps for a successful oil change and a high-performing engine.
1. Why is the oil change essential?
Engine oil plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the vehicle:
🔹 Lubrication: Reduces friction between components.
🔹 Cooling: Dissipates heat generated by the engine.
🔹 Cleaning: Removes impurities and combustion residues.
🔹 Protection: Protects components from corrosion and wear.
🚨 Worn oil becomes ineffective: it loses its viscosity, gets contaminated, and promotes the buildup of deposits.
📌 That’s why it’s crucial to perform regular oil changes.
2. How often should you change the oil?
The frequency of oil changes depends on several factors:
✔️ Type of oil used: semi-synthetic (10,000 km) or synthetic (15,000 to 30,000 km).
✔️ Driving conditions: urban driving, short trips = more frequent oil changes.
✔️ Engine type: Diesel or petrol, newer or older engine.
✔️ Manufacturer recommendations: always check the service manual.
📌 On average, an oil change should be performed every 10,000 to 15,000 km or once a year.
3. The Key Steps for a Successful Oil Change
🔧 Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Equipment
Before starting, make sure you have:
✅ Engine oil suitable for your vehicle (check the recommended viscosity).
✅ A new oil filter.
✅ An oil filter wrench and a drain plug wrench.
✅ A container for used oil.
✅ Gloves and rags.
💡 Tip: Choose high-quality oil to extend the lifespan of your engine.
🛠️ Step 2: Clean the Engine Before the Oil Change
Before draining the used oil, it’s recommended to use an internal engine cleaner such as CLEAN Before Oil Change.
🔹 Dissolves sludge and varnish deposits.
🔹 Optimises the removal of impurities.
🔹 Preserves the performance of the new oil.
📌 Instructions: Add the engine cleaner to the used oil, run the engine for 10-15 minutes, then proceed with the oil change.
🚨 Why is this step essential? A clogged engine reduces the efficiency of the new oil and accelerates its ageing.
🛢️ Step 3: Drain the Used Oil
✔️ Warm up the engine for a few minutes to make the oil flow more easily.
✔️ Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely into the container.
✔️ Replace the drain plug gasket to prevent leaks.
✔️ Clean the oil pan before tightening the drain plug back on.
📌 Remember to recycle the used oil at an authorised centre.
🛠️ Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter
The oil filter catches impurities and should be replaced at every oil change.
✔️ Unscrew the old filter using an appropriate wrench.
✔️ Coat the seal of the new filter with a little clean oil to ensure a proper seal.
✔️ Screw the filter on by hand without overtightening.
🚨 A clogged filter reduces the efficiency of the new oil!
⛽ Step 5: Refill with New Oil
✔️ Check the recommended oil quantity in the vehicle’s manual.
✔️ Use a funnel to avoid spills.
✔️ Gradually pour in the new oil, then replace the reservoir cap.
📌 Do not exceed the MAX level on the dipstick to avoid excessive pressure in the engine.
📊 Step 6: Check the Oil Level and Test the Engine
✔️ Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
✔️ Wait a few minutes, then check the oil level with the dipstick.
✔️ Top up if necessary.
🚨 Pay attention to the engine or oil warning lights! A level that is too low or too high can damage your engine.
4. Tips to Optimise Your Engine’s Lifespan After an Oil Change
👉 Use a hyper-lubricant like SC-100 to enhance lubrication and reduce wear.
👉 Perform a fuel treatment with ECO ESSENCE or ECO DIESEL to reduce engine fouling.
👉 Adopt a suitable driving style: avoid harsh acceleration and respect warm-up times.
📌 Regular maintenance ensures a more efficient engine and optimises fuel consumption.
5. A Successful Oil Change Means a High-Performance Engine!
✅ A regular and well-executed oil change extends your engine’s lifespan.
✅ Cleaning the engine before the oil change optimises the performance of the new oil.
✅ Choosing quality oil and good maintenance saves on repairs.
🚀 Need an oil change cleaner or a hyper-lubricant to protect your engine?