Engine oil changing has to be well prepared.
If you wonder how to change motor oil, you have have to check if you have all the information needed:
Before learning how to change engine oil, we remind you that checking engine oil colour will not give you any information about its degradation
In some cases, a car oil change can be easy, in other cases you need special tools.
How much oil needed for an oil change? How much oil do I need for an oil change? It depends on the size of your engine. For a passenger car, you need between 3 and 7 litres but in some cases, for cars with a dry oil sump, it can be 10 to 12 litres and even more. The exact oil volume is indicated in your user manual or can be asked to your service partner. The oil filter has to be changed at the same time. Therefore the oil volume is slightly higher when you renew the oil filter at the same time.
Before you change your car oil, it’s important to note that engine oil is a sensitive part of your car engine.
You might wonder What is brake fluid? or What is brake fluid for? In hydraulic brake systems, brake fluid transmits the force of your foot on the pedal to the brakes. Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in a car: It’s the connection between the mechanical action of your brake pedal and the brake linings that creates friction to slow your vehicle speed. It’s essential for road safety that you use the right brake fluid and maintain it at the recommended level at all times
How do you check the level of your brake fluid? More
A brake fluid change should be done regularly.
Brake fluid absorbs water from the air. That’s why the boiling point decreases over its lifetime. The result is poor to no braking at all. You should change your brake fluid regularly to keep your brake system working efficiently.
How to add brake fluid. Check the brake fluid level to ensure it is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. If the brake fluid level is under the MIN mark, see a qualified mechanic.
How to put in brake fluid and How to fill brake fluid. Before adding brake fluid, you should be aware that this is not usually necessary. There is no brake fluid consumption. Note that worn brake linings or a leak from the hydraulic system could be the reason for low brake fluid. Do not add brake fluid if the brake fluid reservoir is empty or if your brake pedal goes right to the floor. The brake system may have a leak. Don’t use your car until the problem has been repaired by a qualified mechanic.
If you want to know more…
Most people overlook checking engine oil. It’s easy to do, but can cause major damage requiring thousands of rupees to repair. You need to check your engine oil before any long trip to avoid major damage. In case of use for work, we recommend that you check your oil level daily.
Checking car oil is quite easy
We recommend that you check the oil level in the morning when the engine is cold and most of the oil has run down into the engine’s oil pan. The oil pan forms the bottom of your engine and is the reservoir for the engine oil. You will need a clean cloth or paper towels , a can of oil and a funnel. We also recommend wearing disposable gloves. Use only the recommended oil for your engine. Find the right Kroon oil engine oil for your engine at carclub recommendation page…
Just like your engine needs oil to lubricate the different components and protect them against wear and corrosion, your transmission is as well lubricated by special fluid called transmission fluid.
Maintaining the proper transmission fluid level is important to keep your transmission shifting properly and your car running smoothly.
How do I check my transmission fluid?
Before giving you all the necessary tips to change antifreeze, let’s take a closer look at what antifreeze does.
What is coolant?
Coolant is a liquid stored in your car’s radiator. It has two main functions: helping to prevent engine overheating and corrosion and lubricating the parts it is in contact with, like the water pump. What’s the difference between antifreeze and coolant?
Coolant vs antifreeze:
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Need to change your motorbike oil ? Doing it yourself is easy! Let me show you how to change your oil in just 30 minutes! First, remember that your oil should be changed every 5000 km.
You’ll need a seal-tight container for collecting the used oil, a pair of gloves, paper towels, a drain plug gasket, a funnel, an oil filter that’s fits your motorbike, a drain wrench and a filter wrench. That’s it, you’re all set! Place your vehicle on a flat surface and make sure the engine is slightly warm and has been turned off for about one minute….
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You’re wondering why you need to top-up your oil. Basically, it extends the life of your engine by protecting it from wear and tear that can’t be repaired. The above video explain you how to top up your oil, which needs to be done every 2000 kilometers
Step one: Check your engine’s oil level
You’ll need some gloves, kitchen paper and a funnel. Make sure your vehicle is on a flat surface
Your engine still needs to be warm and switched off for a minute… Read More
Victories are celebrated with Carclub lubricants every day. Thrilling victories, that make our childhood dreams come true. And then there are the everyday victories, those that make us proud of pursuing the challenges we face day in, day out.
Today, we will take you behind the scenes and reveal some of the secrets of Carclub lubricants.
Thanks to their performance, Kroon oil remove impurities, protect from wear and corrosion, act as sealing agents and reduce temperature, making for greater output. Lubricants limit friction by facilitating the free movement of multiple-mechanical parts that come into contact with each other…. Read more
You’re about to change your oil, and you’re wondering which of the lubricants available on the market you should choose. It’s really a choice that depends on your vehicle.
The right lubricant will meet international standards (ACEA, API, ILSAC, JASO), as well as the specifications of each manufacturer.(ex: Renault RN0710, PSA B71 2290, BMW LL-04….)
To make your choice, first check your vehicle’s maintenance manual to find the standard or authorized lubricant recommended by the manufacturer. This should match the information on the back of the product…
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Categories of brake fluids
The first vehicles equipped with hydraulic braking systems were launched in 1924. Alcohols, particularly polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol, and glycerol-water mixtures were used as hydraulic fluids. These products didn’t match the requirements of today’s technology and are only of historical interest.
Currently, there are mainly three categories of brake fluids:
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Brake fluids are composed of 3 mains components:
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Brakes are activated by pressing the brake pedal, usually with the assistance of a vacuum servo system…
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Brake fluid performances specifications
– DOT 3 brake fluids
DOT 3 brake fluids are usually glycol ether based, but that is not because they are required to be. In fact, FMVSS116 doesn’t precise the chemical composition of brake fluids. It simply dictates the fluid physical properties. However, brake fluid industry has, by consensus, decreed that glycol ether fluids are the most economical way to meet the requirements.
– DOT 4 brake fluids
DOT 4 brake fluids are also glycol ether based but they contain in addition borate esters in order to improve some properties including increased dry and wet boiling points. DOT 4 brake fluids have a more stable and higher boiling point during the early portion of their life, but ironically once the fluid does actually begin to absorb water its boiling point will typically fall off more rapidly than a typical DOT 3 brake fluid. By FMVSS116 standards, DOT 4 brake fluids must have a minimum dry boiling point of 230°C and a minimum wet boiling point of 155°C.
– DOT 5.1 brake fluids
Historically, DOT 5-level performance (specifically boiling points and viscosity) could only be achieved with silicone-based fluids. However, modern compositions have created glycol ether-based fluids which now meet DOT 5 brake fluids requirements in these key areas. Consequently, the DOT 5.1 brake fluids level was created to differentiate these two very different chemistries which both meet DOT 5 brake fluids performance requirements.
In so many words, DOT 5.1 brake fluids are simply DOT 4-type brake fluids which meet DOT 5 brake fluids performance requirements. Because of this, they typically can be mixed with DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluids without concern. Sometimes, they are even referred to as ‘DOT 4 Plus’ or ‘Super DOT 4’ brake fluids because they are more similar to a conventional DOT 4 fluid by chemistry than they are to a conventional DOT 5 brake fluid. In fact, DOT 5.1 is essentially comprised of borate esters.
– DOT 5 brake fluids
DOT 5 brake fluids have been developed for military applications, i.e. for vehicles that could stand in storage for years, without maintenance and had to perform immediately when required. They are superior in terms of boiling point retention and corrosion/conservation properties, since they don’t absorb water. Up to now car manufacturers have not moved to use silicone fluids for first fill regular cars for two main reasons:
– Low air solubility, which leads to a spongy brake pedal feel.
– No water solubility, moisture which enters in the system can be corrosive and can freeze at low temperatures or boil at high temperatures.
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The evolution of car designs to improve fuel economy and reduce exhaust emissions has led to vehicles more powerful and less polluting but also with increasing temperatures under bonnet.
Nowadays most OEMs require a DOT 3 brake fluid or DOT 4 brake fluid level to assume this range of temperatures and constraints.
At the moment standard organizations aren’t working on a new specification.
Nevertheless each OEM is launching or has already launched its own specifications based on DOT 3 brake fluid or DOT 4 brake fluid officials with additional tests and severe limits. It’s a kind of DOT 4 brake fluid + or Super DOT 4 specification.
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Brake Fluids have a limited life, not only because of water absorption but because corrosion inhibitors and stabilizers are depleted over time. Wear particles and rubber fragments will also slowly build up.
Most automotive professionals agree that glycol based brake fluids, (DOT 3 brake fluid, DOT 4 brake fluid, DOT 5.1 brake fluid) should be flushed, or changed, every 1-2 years. Many manufacturers also require periodic fluid changes to ensure reliability and safety.
Electronic testers and test strips are commercially available to control brake fluid conditions measuring moisture content.
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Brake fluid is not considered a “top up” fluid. If it is low, there is usually a problem.
Brake fluid level in the master cylinder will drop as the linings (pads or shoes) wear and the calipers or wheel cylinders extend further to compensate. This added fluid may need to be removed when renewing pads or shoes.
Brake fluid level may also be low because of a leak, which could result in a loss of hydraulic pressure and consequently, a significant loss of braking ability. Modern cars have split hydraulic circuits to ensure against total hydraulic failure.
There is a Technical Data Sheet for every brake fluid, nevertheless the following points should be given special attention:
– Keep out of the reach of children.
– Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
– In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
– If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label.
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Brake fluid should be stored in its original container in a clean, dry location at or below room temperature preferably separated from similar storage of petroleum products or fluid materials used for maintenance purposes.
Always use the original packaging, which should be tightly sealed to avoid water absorption and be clearly marked. Under good conditions of storage, new, unopened containers of brake fluid, with their foil seal intact, will have the following shelf life:
– Small packs
shelf life 2 years
– Drums (stored under a cover, protected from light, positioned on the side)
shelf life 3 years
– Bulk (stored in stainless steel tank with a nitrogen blanket)
shelf life 2 years
Once opened, the content must be consumed as soon as possible (within few months)
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Brake fluids DOT 3 brake fluids, 4 brake fluids and 5.1 brake fluids can be completely mixed with other brake fluids which belong to the same category, because DOT standards contain a test of compatibility.
But mixing a brake fluid with a high boiling point with a fluid having a low boiling point results into a fluid with properties and performances reduced compared to the superior performance of brake fluid.
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Most people don’t know that used motor oil can be recycled.
How to safely dispose of oil
Keep your used motor oil in a clean, leakproof container like a plastic jug or bottle. Make sure the cap is tightly sealed and store in a cool, dry place away from heat, sunlight, children and pets. Used motor oil can’t be recycled if it’s mixed with other liquids like antifreeze or brake fluid.
Where to dispose of oil and oil filters
Where can you take your used motor oil and oil filter to dispose of them? Many auto parts stores and some service stations will take used motor oil and oil filters for recycling. We collect used oil as well, so you can also call our sales manager, who will advise you on the best option. Don’t put it out with your normal trash!
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Oil consumption is determined by engine power output and fuel consumption. This means that your engine will consume more oil when you are driving a sportier car or faster or with a trailer to transport horses or boats. Whenever you notice that your vehicle is consuming more oil than before under the same conditions of use, you need to find out why this is happening. High oil consumption can create air pollution and can affect after-treatment devices such as particulate filters and catalysts. Below, some reasons for higher oil consumption:
– Abnormal piston ring and cylinder wear.
– Defective crankcase ventilation.
– Worn valve seals.
– Abnormal turbocharger wear.
This listing is not exhaustive. There are plenty of reasons why your oil consumption may be high. We recommend that you see a qualified mechanic.
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Under optimal conditions (stored in the original, unopened containers at moderate temperatures), motor oil usually remains stable for an extended period of time. There should not be deposits on the bottom of the container. You cannot redissolve the deposits by simply shaking the container. The oil has to be replaced.
That said, an engine oil’s properties are best if it is used within two years. After that, we recommend replacing the oil.
Don’t put the old oil in the trash. Oil should be recycled.
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An oil change is when you change the oil of your car. An oil change is merely the process of removing old oil and oil filter, and putting new oil (and a new oil filter) back into the car. Once in a while, cars need to have an oil change because their oil get used too much and needs to be changed, much like a blood vessel for a human body. Doing an oil change on a regular basis is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your car in good running condition.
To choose the proper type of oil for your vehicle, you need to understand the significance of oil composition, viscosity ratings, and approvals:
– Oil composition:
Lubricants are either fully synthetic, synthetic based technology, semi-synthetic or mineral.
The biggest part of a lubricant is composed of base oils while the remaining part are oil additives which help to protect your engine against wear and corrosion and keep it clean.
70% of a lubricant is composed of base oils while the remaining 30% are oil additives which help to keep your engine cool, clean, and corrosion-free.
– Viscosity ratings: Oil is rated and identified by its viscosity, which determines its ability to flow. Two types of oil are on the market: single-viscosity oil and multi-viscosity oil. Almost every vehicle is designed to run on multi-viscosity oil. The lower the number, the thinner the oil and the more easily it flows. In 10W-30 oil, for example, the two numbers mean that it’s a multi-viscosity oil. The 10W is an index that refers to how the oil flows at low temperatures (in Winter); 30 refers to how it flows at high temperatures.
To find out which viscosity to choose for your vehicle, look in your owner’s manual for an oil viscosity chart:
Synthetic oil is a lubricant consisting of chemical compounds that are artificially made (synthesized). Synthetic lubricants can be manufactured using chemically modified petroleum components rather than whole crude oil, but can also be synthesized from other raw materials. Synthetic oil is used as a substitute for lubricant refined from petroleum when operating in extremes of temperature, because, in general, it provides superior mechanical and chemical properties to those found in traditional mineral oils
Find more on our Xedox FE synthetic engine oils
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You can follow our guidelines given in the section How? How to do an oil change, the way to carry out an oil change is similar whatever the composition.
We just highlight 2 important issues:
– Synthetics can last as much as three times longer than conventional oil, which means that you could be saving 15 to 24 liters of oil.
– With synthetic oils, you can go up to 20,000 or 30,000 km of oil drain intervals.
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You can follow our main recommendations and motor oil ratings…
XEDOX FE 530 engine oil are formulated for BMW cars, and recommended for use in after-sales…
Remove your motorcycle oil filter cap, place a tray under the bike and remove the sump plug. Remove the appropriate bolt, which is the biggest one on the sump, usually on the bottom or on the side.
Once the oil is drained, remove the filter with a wrench.
Replace the sump plug, tighten to the correct torque setting as recommended in the owner’s manual before spinning on a new filter. Smear the rubber filter gasket in clean oil before tightening by hand. Nip it up half a turn with the filter wrench.
Pour new oil. You can restart the bike after and check for leaks. After that, stop the engine for five minutes and check the level again.
Discover in images how to replace your motorcycle oil filter:
Engine oil viscosity refers to how easily oil pours at a specified temperature. Thin oils have a water-like consistency and pour more easily at low temperatures than heavier, thicker oils that have a more honey-like consistency. Thin is good for easier cold weather starting and reducing friction, while thick is better for maintaining film strength and oil pressure at high temperatures and loads.
You probably wonder what is the importance of viscosity in your engine.
The viscosity will determine how easily the oil is pumped to the working components, how easily it passes through the filter, and how quickly it drains back to the engine. The lower the viscosity, the easier all this will happen. That is why cold starts are so critical to an engine because the oil is cold, and so relatively thick.
A fluid’s viscosity is important because it is directly related to its load-carrying capabilities. The greater a fluid’s viscosity, the greater the loads it can withstand. The viscosity of a fluid must be adequate to separate moving parts under normal operating conditions (temperature and speed).
Knowing that a fluid’s viscosity is directly related to its ability to carry a load, one would think that the more viscous a fluid, the better it is. The fact is, the use of a high-viscosity fluid can be just as detrimental as using too light an oil.
It is the rate of change of viscosity between 2 temperatures. The lower the Viscosity Index, the more the drop in viscosity as the oil warms up. The higher the VI value, the less the drop in viscosity as the oil warms up. Generally speaking, the less it changes, across a range of temperatures, the better.
The VI scale goes from 0 to 100, with 0 being the worst, and 100 being the best. New products are now better than when the scale was first made, so some new products have scores as high as 400.
As oil heats up, its ability to provide effective lubrication diminishes. As this decreases, friction and heat increase, which can lead to mechanical failures. Therefore, the longer an oil can retain its optimum viscosity, the more effectively it will lubricate an engine and prevent damage. In this way, viscosity index can be a useful way of judging an oil’s overall quality, and is an essential piece of information when selecting an oil for heavy-duty use involving wide variations in temperature.
High or Low Viscosity Index ?
A lubricant may merit having a high VI for one or more of the following reasons:
– The optimum viscosity is not known
– Varying loads and speeds exist
– Varying ambient temperatures exist
– To boost energy efficiency
– To boost oil service life (lower average temperature)
– To boost machine service life (fewer repairs and downtime)
Cheaper, lower VI lubricants may make sense if
– Speeds and loads are constant
– Temperature is constant (constant ambient temperature or a heat exchanger is in use)
– The optimum viscosity at the operating temperature is known and is consistently achieved
An oil’s VI can also tell you useful information about a lubricant’s formulation, including the type and quality of base oils. For instance, highly refined and pure mineral oils will have correspondingly higher VIs. Certain additives, such as viscosity-index improvers and pour-point depressants, influence VI as well.
What oil do I use for my car? Your engine needs oil that is thin enough for cold starts, and thick enough when the engine is hot. Since oil gets thinner when heated, and thicker when cooled, most of us use what are called multi-grade, or multi-viscosity oils.
What viscosity oil to use in modern cars?
Today, multi-viscosity oils are used almost exclusively over monograde oils since they function best in changing climates. An SAE 30 motor oil, for example, is consistent with the viscosity of, say, a 5W-30 oil when both are at 210 degrees, but the latter offers better performance in the cold as well. Multi-viscosity oils also contain additives that keep the oil from thinning out as its heated.
What kind of oil for my car if it’s a modern one?
Most modern car engines use a 5W30 or 5W40 oil. Modern oils have a lower viscosity. This means they’re thinner, helping the engine turn over more easily, and ensuring that the oil can circulate quickly around the engine soon after start up. Thinner oil helps fuel consumption too.
What oil for my car if it’s an old one?
Older cars do not run well with these oils, as they are not designed to such tight tolerances. Cars that are 10 years old or older were designed to work with 10W30 or 10W40 motor oil.
What motor oil to use if it’s a high mileage car?
High-mileage cars that have over 100,000 miles may even need a 20W50 oil.
Which recommended lubricant for my vehicle?
Our Lube advisors help you to find the best oil for your model and brand of vehicle.
Our Engineering workshop based in Motorcity Bagatelle is dedicated to cars: you will be provided car services as full service oil change, auto care services (depending on the centers) as auto shop (purchase of lubricants), tire repair, car tint, car polish, car wash service, a place where to change car battery and sometimes even auto maintenance.
Our mechanics which are professionally trained will be able as well to give you advice and answer to all our questions (Ex: where can I change my oil , when to change your car battery …)
Definitely, Carclub engineering and carclub lubricants are the best place to get oil change! Best oil change guaranteed!
Looking for auto shops near me / oil changes near me?
Kroon oil are also dedicated for your motorcycle or scooters’ oil change and where we deliver as well other bike service. They are quick lube oil change centres we carefully select where you’ll have a very professional oil service and fast oil change.
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Industry lubricants and grease to be used in food transformation or packaging.
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Biodegradable lubricants
About level of biodegradability of lubricants or grease.
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