Tom's Tires provides Lube, Oil & Filter Change services to East Palestine, OH, Columbiana, OH, Beaver Falls, PA, and other surrounding areas.

The Importance of Lube, Oil & Filter Services

A Lube, Oil, and Filter Change, commonly abbreviated as LOF, is a routine maintenance service essential for the longevity and performance of a vehicle. During your LOF service, a technician will drain the old engine oil, which accumulates contaminants over time and breaks down, losing its effectiveness as a lubricant. The oil filter, responsible for trapping dirt and debris to prevent them from circulating through the engine, is also replaced to ensure the new oil remains clean and prevent clogs. Additionally, the technician will lubricate the chassis components of the vehicle to prevent wear and tear on the suspension system and other moving parts.

Regular LOF services are crucial to maintaining a vehicle's health, ensuring that all moving components are properly lubricated, and reducing the risk of engine damage due to old or dirty oil.

Oil Change Frequency

The frequency of oil changes will vary depending on the type of vehicle, the oil used, and driving habits. Traditionally, the recommendation was to change oil change every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever came first. However, with modern lubricants, many newer vehicles can go 5,000 to 7,500 miles or more between oil changes. Some vehicles equipped with synthetic oil can even extend that interval. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil change interval, and consider factors such as frequent short trips, hauling, and extreme temperatures, which may necessitate more frequent changes.

Signs that it's Time for an Oil Change

Several signs may indicate that your vehicle is in need of an oil change. If you notice any of the following issues, it might be time to schedule a service:

• Dark and Dirty Oil: Clean oil is typically amber in color and somewhat transparent. As it gets older and contaminated with particles from the engine, it turns darker. If the oil is black and gritty, it's time for an oil change.
• Engine Noise and Knocking: Good engine oil provides a protective layer between engine parts, preventing metal-to-metal brushing and keeping the engine quiet. Old and dirty oil may cause increased engine noise or even knocking sounds.
• Oil Change or Check Engine Light: An illuminated oil change reminder or check engine light on your dashboard should not be ignored. It often means the vehicle's computer has determined it's time for an oil change based on mileage or engine conditions.
• Oil Smell Inside the Cabin: If you start to smell oil inside your car, it could be a sign of an oil leak. Overheating or an oil leak onto the engine can produce this smell. You should have your oil changed and vehicle checked for leaks.
• Excessive Mileage: If you've driven your car more than the recommended mileage interval since your last oil change, it's wise to get it serviced, even if you're not experiencing any symptoms.
• Exhaust Smoke: While some translucent vapor from the exhaust is normal, especially in cold weather, thick smoke could indicate an oil leak or other issue with the engine parts. Have your vehicle checked and the oil changed if there was a leak or if it is near time for service

Lube, Oil & Filter Service in East Palestine, OH

Need LOF service in East Palestine, OH? Visit Tom's Tires for service. We provide routine oil changes, oil filter replacement, and lubrication services to keep your vehicle running strong.