All About Oil Changes at Auffenberg Kia

Oil is arguably the most important fluid in your car. It is responsible for ensuring your engine runs smoothly and strong for many years. Because of this, it’s essential to get regular scheduled oil changes to ensure you stay on the road. It’s also, however, to understand the signs that may indicate you’re overdue for a change, and the type of oil you might need in your car. At Auffenberg Kia, we understand that a little knowledge goes a long way, so let’s examine an overview of oil changes and the signs you’re ready for one today.

Signs You Need an Oil Change:

• Oil Change Indicator: In this day and age, all new vehicles have a variety of dashboard indicator lights which let you know when various things are wrong with your vehicle. One of these, which looks like an old-fashioned oil can, means that you need an oil change. Watch for it when it lights up, and don’t ignore it.
• Dirty or Dark Oil: When fresh, clean oil is placed in your car, it’s a translucent bright amber color. As it cycles through your engine, it picks up particulates and dirt to clean the engine, and in turn becomes a black sludge. If you note your oil is dark and opaque, it’s time to get clean oil for your car.
• Engine Noise: Engine noises like knocking or grinding are bad news. While they can mean that you need oil, they can also be a sign of much more serious troubles. Immediately call for service.
• Decreased Performance: As mentioned above, as oil cleans your engine and cycles through, it gradually becomes sludge, which actually inhibits performance instead of smoothing it. If you notice a lack of power or acceleration, an oil change may be indicated.
• Increased Exhaust Emissions: If you notice a burning smell or black smoke from your exhaust pipe, you may actually be burning oil. It’s important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.

Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil

If you’re not certain about the difference between synthetic oil and conventional oil, you’re not alone. Some newer cars are actually designed for synthetic, while some can run on normal. Let’s look at the difference.

• Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oil is made from less crude oil and more alternative chemicals. It’s designed to be highly efficient and last longer than conventional. Because it is much more expensive than regular oil, it’s usually only indicated for newer and high-performance vehicles that will be driven hard.
• Regular Oil: Regular oil, also known as conventional oil, is refined from raw crude oil. Most cars, especially older cars that are driven only under normal conditions, can run on regular oil. While regular oil costs less, it may need to be changed more often as it breaks down faster than synthetic.

If you are not certain what type of oil you need, fear not. The technicians at Auffenberg Kia are factory trained and certified, and they can help you make the right choice to keep your engine healthy.

Why Choose Auffenberg Kia for Your Oil Change?

1. Expert Technicians: The Kia certified technicians at our repair and service center are experts in servicing your Kia vehicle. Even if you don’t drive a Kia, they have a wealth of experience in many makes and models.
2. Quality Products: From your oil filter right down to the engine parts in your car if need be, our technicians use only genuine, OEM factory parts to service your car. This means the right part for the right fit and perfect performance every time.
3. Timely Service: Everyone is on the go these days and it’s important to get you back on the road fast. Our technicians understand this and work with speed and efficiency.
4. Visual Inspections: While changing your oil, our technicians will give your car a visual inspection to determine if any other maintenance may be required. That way we can advise you on the best path forward.
5. Convenient Scheduling: You can use our online form to schedule your appointment online, or just give us a call at 618-624-2277. We’re ready to work with you to find the right time for your schedule.

Keeping your car running like new for many years means sticking you’re your schedule of regular oil changes and routine preventative maintenance. Contact Auffenberg Kia today and our team of certified service professionals will work to keep you on the road and running with power, efficiency, and reliability. Get in touch today!

Call us at 618-624-2277 or book your appointment online to schedule your maintenance service today. Keep your car running for years just like the first day you drove off the lot with service from Auffenberg Kia!