Category: Oil Change

Road Trip Ready: The Top Things to Check on Your Car Before Hitting the Highway

Posted on by Grease Pro

Top 10 Car Checks for a Safe Holiday Road Trip

The holiday season is here, bringing many families together through road trips. At Grease Pro, we’re dedicated to making your journey safe and joyful. To ensure your vehicle is ready for holiday adventures, here’s our comprehensive road trip checklist tailored for the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Tire Inspection – Important for Road Trip Safety

Examine your tires as part of your road trip safety protocol. Ensure they have adequate tread depth, are properly inflated, and free from damage. This is vital for safe handling and fuel efficiency, especially on long trips.

2. Brake System – Key to Your Safety

Check your brakes thoroughly, a crucial step in any pre-drive checklist. Listen for unusual sounds and note the responsiveness. If there’s any doubt, have a professional assess them to ensure your safety on the road.

3. Engine and Oil Levels – Maintaining the Health of Your Car

Regular engine and oil checks are pivotal for your vehicle’s health. Check oil levels and quality to prevent overheating, a vital part of any vehicle safety checklist. This ensures a smooth and reliable engine performance throughout your journey.

4. Coolant and Radiator Check – Avoiding Overheating

Your coolant level is crucial in maintaining engine temperature, especially important during the holiday season’s varying climates. Also, inspect the radiator for leaks or damage as part of your car’s checklist to prevent any mid-trip hassles.

5. Battery Health – Reliable Power Supply

Ensure your car’s battery is in good condition, an essential aspect of how to know if your car can make a long trip. Check for signs of wear or corrosion, and if it’s been a while, consider getting it tested or replaced.

6. Lights and Signal Functionality – Communication is Key

Functional lights and signals are vital for visibility and communication, a core aspect of road trip safety. Check all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to ensure they’re working correctly.

7. Windshield Wipers and Fluid – Clear Vision for Safety

Visibility is crucial, making windshield wipers and fluid an important part of your road trip checklist. Replace any worn wipers and top up your washer fluid to ensure clear vision, no matter the weather.

8. HVAC System Check – Comfort and Visibility

Ensure your car’s HVAC system is functioning properly. Check for proper airflow and temperature adjustment. If the system isn’t heating or cooling effectively, it could indicate a need for maintenance, an important aspect of how to prepare for a road trip.

9. Emergency Preparedness – Essential for Road Trip Readiness

An updated emergency kit should be a staple in your vehicle, especially during the holiday season. This includes first aid supplies, tools, and necessary documentation, ensuring you’re prepared for any scenario.

10. Steering and Suspension – Ensuring Smooth Handling

Check your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. Make sure the steering feels responsive and there are no unusual noises when turning. The suspension should be firm yet comfortable, providing stability and comfort on various terrains.

Set Off with Confidence This Holiday Season

As you prepare for your holiday road trips, remember the joy of the journey starts with a well-prepared vehicle. By following these essential tips, you’re ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip. For a comprehensive checkup and peace of mind, Grease Pro is your go-to destination.

Plan your holiday road trip with confidence! Schedule a visit to Grease Pro for a thorough inspection and tune-up. Let us help you make your holiday journeys safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Book your appointment today and hit the highway with assurance!

How Long Can You Go Without an Oil Change?

Posted on by Grease Pro

Regular oil changes are vital to maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle’s engine. Oil helps lubricate the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear over time. Our expert technicians at Grease Pro can provide you a fast and easy walk-in oil change, and our blog will answer some common questions about oil changes and share some tips for keeping your engine running smoothly.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

The frequency of oil changes depends on various factors, such as the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and oil type. Generally, most car manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 5,000-7,500 miles, or every six months to a year if you drive fewer miles. However, newer vehicles may have longer oil change intervals of up to 10,000-15,000 miles.

It’s crucial to follow your vehicle’s recommended oil change intervals and not try to determine how many miles you can go over an oil change, for the health of your car. Over time, oil can break down and become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles. This can reduce its effectiveness in lubricating the engine and protecting it from damage. If you go too long without changing your oil, the oil can become thick, sludgy, and gummy, which can clog up the engine and cause it to run less efficiently.

What Happens If You Go Too Long Without an Oil Change?

Not changing your oil regularly can lead to a variety of issues for your vehicle. Without proper lubrication, the metal parts in your engine can rub against each other, causing friction and heat buildup. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the engine components, including the pistons, crankshaft, and bearings. Eventually, this can lead to engine damage and failure.

Another issue that can arise from not changing your oil is decreased engine performance. As the oil becomes thicker and less effective, the engine may have to work harder to operate, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and reduced power output. Going too long without an oil change can lead to costly repairs and maintenance down the road. In extreme cases, engine damage from lack of oil can be irreversible and require an engine replacement. 

Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle’s Oil

While regular oil changes are crucial, there are several other things you can do to maintain your vehicle’s oil between oil change intervals. Here are some tips from GP to help keep your vehicle running smoothly:

  • Check your oil level regularly: It’s essential to check your oil level at least once a month, especially if you’re driving frequently or taking long trips. This will help you catch any potential problems early on and prevent damage to your engine.
  • Use high-quality oil: Choosing the right type of oil can make a big difference in the performance and longevity of your engine. Look for high-quality oils that meet or exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Keep your engine clean: Dirt and debris can accumulate in your engine over time, which can cause your oil to become contaminated. Regularly cleaning your engine can help prevent this from happening.
  • Replace your oil filter regularly: Your oil filter is responsible for removing impurities from your oil, which can help keep your engine running smoothly. Be sure to replace your oil filter at the recommended intervals.

Regular oil changes are a vital part of vehicle maintenance that should not be ignored. By sticking to your recommended oil change intervals and ensuring that your vehicle’s engine is properly lubricated, you can help prolong the life of your engine and save yourself from costly repairs down the road. So, the next time your vehicle is due for an oil change, make sure to take the time to get it done with the expert technicians at Grease Pro – your car (and wallet) will thank you! With 12 convenient locations around Panama City and Bay County, we’ll make your walk-in oil change experience worth your time. 

How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

Posted on by Grease Pro

For a car owner, scheduling an oil change is essential for maintaining your vehicle in peak performance condition. Unlike other shops, at Grease Pro, you don’t even need to make an appointment to get your oil change completed. If you haven’t had your oil changed regularly, you’re at risk of experiencing decreased performance from the engine, ultimately leading to more expensive repairs down the road. When you’re planning ahead on taking it into the shop, there’s one question that almost everyone asks: How long does an oil change take? Taking the time to understand this process can provide insight into how and why regular maintenance is so important – read on and find out all about it!

Why You Should Change Your Oil Regularly

Before you start asking, “how many miles can you go over an oil change” remember regular oil changes are essential for the health and longevity of any vehicle. Maintaining a consistent oil change schedule can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your engine and ultimately save you from costly repairs. Over time, oil can become contaminated with debris and lose its effectiveness. Regularly changing oil filter and oil ensures that your engine is properly lubricated, optimizing its performance and fuel efficiency. Neglecting to change your oil can also cause a buildup of sludge, which can eventually clog the engine. Don’t skimp on this essential maintenance task – schedule regular oil changes to keep your vehicle running smoothly and reliably.

Knowing When You Should Change Your Oil

One of the most important aspects of car maintenance is changing your oil regularly. But how do you know when it’s time to change it? The old rule used to be changing oil every 3,000 miles. However, advancements in engines and oil technology have made it possible to wait longer between oil changes. Nowadays, most experts suggest changing your oil every 5,000-7,500 miles depending on your driving habits and the type of oil you use. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations specific to your vehicle. If you are having your car serviced at Grease Pro, be sure to talk to your technician to get all the latest information on your vehicle specifications and maintenance. If you’re wondering “how much oil does my car need”, our Grease Pro professionals can provide you with the right information at the time of service. Taking the time to properly care for your car’s engine will not only improve its performance, but it will also prolong its lifespan.

The Struggles of DIY Oil Changes

DIY oil changes may seem like a cost-effective solution to keeping your car’s engine running smoothly, but it can quickly become a frustrating and messy ordeal. Many people underestimate the time and effort it takes to properly change your car’s oil, leading to mistakes such as overfilling or under-tightening the oil drain plug. Not to mention, disposing of the used oil can be a hassle and environmentally risky if not done properly. While it may save you a few dollars in the short-term, the struggles of DIY oil changes may not be worth the stress and potential risk of experiencing oil leak after oil change in the long run.

The Steps Involved in a Grease Pro Oil Change

Not all oil changes are the same. A Grease Pro oil change goes above and beyond a regular oil change, ensuring that your vehicle is getting the best possible care. Not only do we drain and replace your old oil based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, but we also perform a multipoint inspection to include checking your fluids, filters, headlights, taillights, tag lights, and tire pressure so you have peace of mind knowing that nothing has been overlooked. In addition, our technicians will top off any low fluids and replace your oil filter to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. A Grease Pro oil change takes anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but the benefits to your car’s engine are well worth it. Trust your car’s maintenance to the experts at Grease Pro.

So, there you have it! Regularly changing your oil is one of the few things you need to do in order to keep your car running at its optimal level. There are several factors at play such as how often you drive, the age of your vehicle and the type of oil you run that determine when it’s time for an oil change. DIYers can even agree that a Grease Pro Oil Change is a quick, efficient and hassle-free way to maintain your vehicle. Moreover, always refer to your owner’s manual or Grease Pro technician for special instructions on maintenance, like how often to change your oil or what kind of oil is recommended for your engine type. If you’re seeking a seamless, convenient, and affordable auto maintenance experience that goes above and beyond, while also allowing you to earn cash back through our Loyalty Rewards Program, your search ends here.