At Mitsiland, we know that something as routine as an oil change can still raise a few questions. Whether you're new to car maintenance or just want to be sure you're doing things right, understanding how oil affects your engine's health can make a big difference in how your car performs over time.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most commonly asked questions about oil changes—what matters, what doesn’t, and when it’s time to stop guessing and get it booked in.
Why Are Oil Changes So Important, Really?
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It keeps parts lubricated, prevents overheating, and traps dirt and debris so they don’t damage your engine from the inside out. Over time, that oil becomes dirty, loses its effectiveness, and stops protecting your engine the way it should.
If you wait too long between oil changes, you’re not just risking performance—you could be looking at serious engine damage. That’s why it’s one of the simplest but most crucial things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
That depends on the type of car you drive and how you use it. For most modern vehicles, every 6,000 to 10,000 miles is a good ballpark. But if you’re regularly doing short trips, city driving, or towing, your oil can break down faster.
Some manufacturers recommend oil changes based on time rather than mileage—especially if the car sits unused for long periods. The safest bet? Check your vehicle’s handbook, or better yet, ask one of our specialists here at Mitsiland. We’re happy to look it up for you.
What’s the Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil?
You’ve probably seen the terms thrown around—synthetic, semi-synthetic, mineral, full synthetic—but what do they really mean?
In short, synthetic oil is refined to a higher standard. It’s cleaner, more consistent, and lasts longer than conventional oil. It also performs better at high and low temperatures. Many newer cars require synthetic oil, and it’s often worth the extra cost, especially if you’re looking for long-term engine protection.
Not sure what’s right for your vehicle? That’s exactly what we’re here for.
Can I Tell When My Oil Needs Changing Just by Looking at It?
Some drivers still rely on the colour of the oil on the dipstick, but honestly, that’s not a reliable method anymore. Engine oil darkens quickly, even when it’s still doing its job. The better indicator is either your dashboard oil warning light (which often comes a bit too late), or a regular service schedule.
That said, if your oil smells burnt or looks sludgy, it's definitely time.
Is It Okay to Top Up Instead of Changing It?
Topping up can help in the short term—if you’re low on oil and nowhere near a garage, it’s better than running dry. But it’s not a replacement for a full oil change. Dirty oil mixed with clean oil is still dirty oil.
At Mitsiland, our oil changes come with a fresh filter too—because there’s no point adding clean oil through a clogged filter. It’s about more than just the fluid; it’s giving your engine a fresh start.
Does Where I Get My Oil Changed Matter?
Absolutely. It’s easy to think an oil change is just a basic job, but not all garages treat it that way. At Mitsiland, we use high-quality oil that matches your car’s exact specifications. Our technicians also carry out a full visual check while they’re under the bonnet—often spotting potential issues early, before they turn into costly repairs.
Wrap-Up
When it comes to vehicle care, an oil change might feel like a small thing. But it plays a big role in keeping your engine clean, cool, and running the way it should. If you’ve been putting it off or you’re unsure when it was last done, we’re here to help.
Book your oil change with Mitsiland – The Premium Automotive Service & Repair Specialist. We'll make sure it's done right—every time.
