We all know that engine oil is required to make the engine run smoothly, but there are a number of myths about motor oil that many of us take for granted to be true. For example, it isn’t always necessary to change your oil every 3,000 miles like some garages may tell you. In fact, your owner’s manual will reveal much more accurate figures.

Here are just some of the common engine oil myths debunked by Unipartner that could help you to save money and ensure your car goes that extra mile.

When Engine Oil Turns Dark It Needs Changing

If you are conscientious about car maintenance you are probably very good at remembering to check your oil regularly. You might worry that the oil in your engine is dirty when it starts to turn a darker colour than the amber shade it had when you last topped up. So now it’s gone dark it’s dirty and causing damage to your engine, right? 

Wrong. In fact, your oil is working exactly as it was designed to do. Tiny particles in your engine can start to build up over time causing engine sludge and damage. The oil holds these particles in suspension and stops the sludge from building up. So whilst your engine oil may look darker it is not impeding the oil from doing its job.

Engine Oil Performance Can Be Improved With Additives

It is true that additives can improve the viscosity index of your oil and its performance. However, these additives have usually already been added into any reputable brand of engine oil and you shouldn’t need to add any more. So, let’s go back to that viscosity index. This refers to the range of temperatures at which your oil flows most efficiently through your engine. If the oil is too thick it will not flow properly and could cause oil to build up in areas where it shouldn’t. If the oil is too thin it won’t be so good at suspending particles of debris or lubricating effectively.

Don’t be tempted to put in more additives as this could actually dilute those that are already added and reduce the effectiveness of your oil.

Synthetic Oil Can Cause Damage And Leaks

Synthetic oils first became popular during the 1970s, but they didn’t always play nicely with engine gaskets and seals. The seals would often shrink resulting in messy oil leaks that would suddenly appear on the driveway or floor of the garage. Today, people still believe that synthetic oil will cause leaks and so avoid it instead opting for petroleum-based oils.

The good news is that times have changed and engine oil manufacturers have since discovered ways to ensure seal shrinkage is a thing of the past, for newer cars at least. Older cars that have previously run on petroleum-based oil and suddenly switch to synthetic oil may experience leaks. This is because the synthetic oil can remove sludge that has been blocking small cracks for years revealing a leak problem that was there in the first place.

Arrange A Convenient And Affordable Oil Change With Us Today

If your vehicle is coming up for its next oil change and you want to avoid the mess and hassle of doing it yourself, let the experts at your local Unipartner Garage help. We offer oil changes for any make or model of vehicle and this service is also included in our routine car service plans.

Keeping on top of regular maintenance and routine checks will ensure your vehicle performs perfectly on the road and is on track to pass its next MOT test.

Book online with Unipartner – for all your car service requirements