Auto Oil Change

12th Street Auto Care Center is proud to be ASE and AAA certified. This means you can trust our mechanics to check your oil levels, suggest the best oil for your engine and more. To be ASE and AAA certified, our technicians have to be specially trained to inspect, diagnose and either repair or replace all parts in your vehicle. So when you think it’s time for an oil change, or something is wrong with your vehicle, turn to 12th Street Auto Care Center.

Did you know there is more than one kind of oil? Different vehicles require different oils. These oils help lubricate all the moving parts under your hood, and they also help absorb excess heat so your engine doesn’t break down. This is why it’s so important to have your auto oil changed every few months or every so many miles. But which oil should you use? How often should you get your oil levels checked?

At your local Sioux Falls auto repair shop, 12th Street Auto Care Center, one of our friendly mechanics can help you understand how long your engine can last before you need to change its oil, as well as which oil can help it reach peak performance. If you’d like to change your oil at home, consider the different types to see which one is right for your vehicle.

Conventional oil is the most affordable on the market. It costs less than others, but is also more susceptible to temperature changes and buildup. If your car is in a hot area, the oil will start to thin out. In colder climates, it thickens. Neither thinning nor thickening is good for the health of your engine. This type of oil is also more likely to create sludge that can build up in your engine after it thickens or is contaminated. It’s best not to use this oil unless it’s your only option or unless you live in a comfortable climate that doesn’t get too hot or too cold.

Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional, but it is better at handling temperature fluctuations. It’s less likely to create sludge, thin in the summer or thicken in the winter months. Since this is a superior lubricant, the engine doesn’t need as much, so it lasts longer than conventional.

If you want an affordable option but don’t want to settle for conventional oil, try a synthetic blend. This is a combination of conventional oil and synthetic oil, so it lasts longer than conventional and doesn’t break down as easily. It also resists extreme temperatures better than simple conventional oil. These oils are more affordable than synthetics, but aren’t as pure so they will be consumed faster and will not be as strong as a full synthetic oil.

High-mileage synthetic blends are made specifically for cars, trucks, vans and SUVs that have at least 75,000 miles on them. These oils help prevent leaks and protect piston rings as they age. They also last longer than conventional oils and cost less than synthetics.

Newer vehicles with fewer miles don’t require synthetic blends until they reach the minimum of 75,000 miles, but if you’re uncertain, speak with one of our technicians. At 12th Street Auto Care Center, we can help you understand which oils are best for your car.

When the oil in your car starts to build up sludge, or if it gets contaminated, don’t forget to clean out the oil filter. This filter helps keep tiny contaminants from entering the engine’s lubrication system. If debris enters the system, it can lead to damaged parts. When you call 12th Street Auto Care Center, your technician will check the oil level and inspect the filter as well, to keep your engine safe.

But getting routine maintenance isn’t enough. Keep an eye out for the signs that you need to have an auto oil change or engine inspection.

• Check Engine light is on
• Vehicle shakes while idling
• Visible exhaust
• Loud engine sounds
• Ticking when attempting to start the engine
• Shifting isn’t smooth
• Metallic clunking sounds
• Oil leak with a strange texture
• Engine overheats
• Low oil pressure

If you notice any of these symptoms, your oil filter may need to be cleaned or replaced, and your oil levels may require topping off, a change or a flush. Leaks may need to be stopped and other components will have to be checked. Always call 12th Street Auto Care Center — your local Sioux Falls, South Dakota auto repair shop — when you experience problems with your vehicle.