Engine oil lubricates, cools and cleans the engine. Over time it loses its properties and fills with deposits, which is why changing it is the most basic maintenance you can do.
How often to change the oil
For most cars, a good guide is: every 10,000 to 15,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Some modern cars with long-life oil can go further, as the manufacturer specifies. The exact interval for your car is in the service book.
It is worth changing it more often if you mostly do short trips in town, if you drive a lot in heat and dust, as is often the case in Crete, or if you tow a trailer.
Which oil does my car take?
Not just any oil will do. It needs the right viscosity (for example 5W-30) and the specification the manufacturer requires. Tell us the make, model and year and we will give you the right one.
The filters
- Oil filter: changed at every oil change.
- Air filter: usually every 15,000 to 30,000 km. More often on dusty roads.
- Cabin filter: usually once a year. It affects the air you breathe and the air conditioning.
- Fuel filter: mainly on diesels, as the manufacturer specifies.
How to check the oil level
- Car on level ground, with the engine switched off for a few minutes.
- Pull out the dipstick, wipe it and push it back in all the way.
- Pull it out again: the level should be between MIN and MAX.
It is a good idea to check it once a month and before long journeys. If the level drops often, something is using oil and the car needs checking.
Oils and filters in Chania
At the shop we stock oils and filters for all makes, and in the workshop we carry out your service.
Frequently asked questions
How many kilometres between oil changes?
Usually every 10,000 to 15,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Some cars with long-life oil can go further. The right interval for your car is in the service book.
Do I need to change the oil even if I drive very little?
Yes. Oil also ages with time, especially with lots of short trips where the engine never warms up properly. That is why the one-year limit applies too.
These tips are general. Every car has its own manufacturer specifications, so ask us about yours.