GM ENGINE OIL LIFE SYSTEM

THE RUSTY DREWING CHEVROLET BUICK GMC EXPERIENCE

Here at Rusty Drewing Chevrolet Buick GMC , we take pride in educating and informing our customers about their vehicles and proper maintenance. We want to help you get the most out of your car. These vehicles are built to last, and they can truly stand the test of time with just a bit of care and attention. With that goal in mind, we'd like to offer a short discourse on the oil life system in your GM vehicle and how to care of it.

WHEN TO CHANGE THE OIL ON GM CARS

The majority of GM cars on the road today have a computer system that alerts the driver when it's time to change the oil and filter. This warning isn't cued by mileage; rather, the number of engine revolutions and the temperature under the hood. Therefore, the time between oil changes can differ widely for different drivers. It all depends on the conditions in which the car has been driven. If the engine is working harder, the oil needs to be changed sooner. That's why it's not a good idea to only get your oil changed every 5,000 miles or even every 2,000 miles. Listen to what your vehicle is telling you. It is even conceivable that your oil might not need to be changed for a year, provided the vehicle is operating under only the best conditions. However, it's not a good idea to ever go longer than a year without getting this service. It's also vital to reset the computer every time you change the oil so that it can continue to accurately monitor usage and wear. The system will let the driver know that it's time for an oil change by displaying the message "CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON." You'll want to get the vehicle serviced as soon as possible after you see this message, at least within the next 600 miles. Bringing your car to Riley Chevrolet when you see this alert will ensure that you receive prompt, friendly service from a knowledgeable technician. Drivers from JEFFERSON CITY and the surrounding area, including Apache Flats, Holts Summit, and Osage City all agree we are the number one Chevrolet dealer in the state. While you're having your oil changed, perhaps consider a tire rotation as well. Tires need to be rotated every 5,000 miles to ensure safety and prevent premature wear.

WHY IT MATTERS

So why should you get your oil changed? Well, the simple answer is because the oil gets dirty. As it moves throughout the engine, it picks up debris, and eventually becomes too dirty to perform as it should. Without clean oil flowing freely through the engine, the parts can become extremely hot. That makes the engine struggle, and if this continues over an extended period of time, the various parts can wear out and even warp. Obviously, this creates a lot of problems for proper function of the vehicle. Eventually, the engine will simply shut down and it will have to be replaced. These repairs are not inexpensive, and the cost has led many a driver to decide to scrap the car and buy a new automobile. So as you can see, a lot of difficulties, trouble, and expense can arise from neglecting an easy and quick service.

GM VEHICLE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

GM vehicles are serviced according to two maintenance service packages, alternating between the two with every appointment. The Maintenance I Service Package should be performed the first time the change oil warning is displayed or within ten months of buying your vehicle, whichever comes first. Getting the Maintenance I package will include changing the oil and filter and resetting the system, rotating the tires and checking them for wear, checking the brakes, examining the engine air cleaner filter, and inspecting the engine coolant and windshield washer fluid to see if they need to be refilled. Any additional issues that the technician notices will also be addressed with this service package. The Maintenance II package should be scheduled after the Maintenance I package was performed last. It includes more in-depth examinations, such as inspecting the engine cooling system, the seat belt components, the windshield wiper blades, the suspension and steering, and the throttle system. All body components will also be checked and lubricated as needed. To get these and any other repairs or services taken care of, be sure to bring your GM vehicle to Riley Chevrolet in JEFFERSON CITY. Our expert staff will provide you with fantastic customer service experience that you won't find anywhere else.