Expert Advice

What type of oil change do I need for my car or truck?

In general, vehicle engines use one of two types of motor oils: standard or synthetic. The type of oil that is best for your car or truck is determined by a few factors, mainly the vehicle’s engine and driving conditions.

Synthetic Oil Change

Oil is rated by its viscosity, or resistance to flow. Motor oils that are thinner have a low viscosity rating. Oil that is thicker, with an appearance like honey, has a higher viscosity rating. Synthetic oils have undergone a chemical process that gives them a higher viscosity rating. This means that they perform better in extreme temperatures.

High-end, performance vehicles typically use synthetic oil. Their engines go to extremely high temperatures. Synthetic oils also have fewer impurities, which make them a good fit for high-mileage vehicles.

Engines generate contaminants like soot, carbon and sulfuric acid that get in motor oil as it travels through the components of the vehicle’s engine. Synthetic oils are not only cleaner, but they also help remove these contaminants created by the combustion process.

At O’Leary’s Automotive Repair, we offer synthetic oil change service in Wilmington, N.C. and surrounding areas. Our synthetic oil changes for cars start at $59.99 and are recommended every six months or 6,000 miles.

Standard Oil Change

If your car or truck does not fit the scenarios above, chances are a standard oil change is ideal. For the majority of vehicles, a standard or conventional oil change is a good fit. Conventional oil has a lower viscosity rating than other types of motor oil.

At O’Leary’s Automotive Repair, we offer conventional oil change service for cars in Wilmington, N.C. and surrounding areas. These car oil changes start at $29.99 and are recommended every three months or 3,000 miles.

Oil Change Coupons

Be sure to check out our oil change coupons for the latest deals and specials available at one of our auto repair shops near you. We offer five convenient locations in Wilmington and surrounding areas, including Leland and Hampstead. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about our oil change service.