probably go longer between changes, and there’s certainly almost no condition
that would warrant even more frequent changes.
What about synthetic oil?
Synthetic motor oil is manufactured so chemicals that can lead to oil oxidation and sludge buildup, which may be present in conventional oil, are not
present. They will not break down at high temperatures, unlike petroleum-based oils, and are not as affected by cold weather, which thickens regular oil
and can add more wear and tear to an engine at start-up.
Synthetic oil costs three to four times as much as conventional oil and
is mostly recommended for vehicles driven in extreme conditions and some
high-performance vehicles. A
HELPFUL HO W TO’S
CHECKING THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID
The automatic transmission fluid should be markings similar to those on the oil dipstick:
checked with the engine running. (Before you one mark for too low, another for too high.
do, though, make sure to remove anything Transmission fluid will almost never be low.
loose hanging from your neck, such as a The automatic transmission/transaxle is a
scarf, sweater, necktie or long jewelry. These sealed system, requiring little maintenance. If
could get caught in a running fan belt and the fluid is low, it most likely means you have
cause you to have a close encounter of the a leak in the system, such as a worn seal or
mechanical kind.) The transmission dipstick a crack somewhere. Have you noticed an oily
looks similar to the oil dipstick, but it doesn’t red or reddish brown patch on your driveway
stick up as high. If you have trouble locating where you park? If so, you may have a trans-
it, consult your owner’s manual. Oftentimes it mission leak and will need to see a mechanic.
will have the same colorful markings (yellow,
red, etc.) as the oil dipstick. Even if the level is OK, note the color and
consistency of the fluid. If it is very dark or
Start the engine and locate and extract the black, check your records and your owner’s
transmission fluid dipstick. Wipe it clean and manual, and plan on getting it changed; it’s
reinsert it, then extract it again. It will have probably overdue.
