Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of any car, and the Chevrolet Equinox is no exception. As an Equinox owner, one of the fundamental maintenance tasks to stay on top of is changing the engine oil regularly. This simple yet vital procedure can significantly impact the overall health and efficiency of your car's engine.
But when exactly should you schedule an oil change for your Chevrolet Equinox? While the recommended interval can vary based on factors such as the model year and engine type, understanding the general guidelines and factors that influence oil change frequency will help you maintain your Equinox in peak condition.
Why Do You Need To Change Your Car's Oil?
Here are the primary reasons for changing your Chevy's oil frequently:
Lubrication
Oil lubricates the moving parts within the engine, reducing friction and wear. It forms a thin film between metal surfaces, preventing them from grinding against each other and causing damage. Over time, oil can break down and lose its lubrication, becoming less effective at protecting the engine components. Regular oil changes ensure that fresh oil is circulating in the engine.
Heat Dissipation
Engine oil also helps disperse heat generated by the combustion process. It absorbs heat from the engine components and prevents overheating. As oil ages, it becomes less efficient at heat transfer, potentially leading to increased engine temperatures. Fresh oil with proper viscosity can effectively manage heat and maintain the engine's operating temperature within acceptable limits.
Contaminant Removal
Oil acts as a cleaning agent, trapping dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts that can accumulate over time. As oil circulates through the engine, it carries these impurities to the oil filter, which helps remove them. However, over an extended period, the oil filter and the oil itself can become saturated, which reduces their ability to effectively remove contaminants. Regular oil changes allow for the replacement of both the oil and oil filter, preventing harmful particles from damaging the engine.
Oxidation Prevention
Engine oil contains additives that help prevent oxidation and the formation of harmful sludge. However, these additives can break down over time, reducing their effectiveness. As a result, the oil can oxidize, forming sludge and deposits that clog and restrict oil flow. Changing the oil at recommended intervals ensures that the engine receives fresh oil with active additives to prevent oxidation.
Overall Engine Performance
Regular oil changes contribute to the overall performance of your engine. Fresh oil helps maximize fuel efficiency, reduce friction-related power losses, and maintain the engine's responsiveness. Neglecting oil changes or using old, degraded oil can lead to decreased engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.
When To Change Your Oil
The recommended oil change interval for a Chevrolet Equinox varies depending on the model year and engine type. However, Chevrolet typically suggests:
- Synthetic oil: Every 7,000 to 10,000 miles, or every 12 months, whichever comes first, for normal driving conditions.
- Conventional oil: Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for severe driving conditions, such as frequent towing, extensive idling, or extreme temperatures.
Oil Change Intervals
Though it's best to check your manual or with your dealer to learn the intervals that work best for your vehicle, here are the recommended intervals for an oil change with synthetic oil:
7,500 Miles
You usually won't need your first Equinox service until the odometer hits 7,500 miles. This service covers the basics, but most importantly, service technicians will change the motor oil and oil filter. This helps keep your engine clean and protected from friction. It's beneficial to have your tires rotated whenever you have the oil changed to extend their life span.
Service technicians will also inspect the brake system, engine air filter, cabin air filter, windshield wiper blades, tire pressure, exhaust system, fluid levels, and suspension system. Finally, they'll check the condition of the battery, the operation of lights and signals, and your vehicle's fluid levels.
15,000 Miles
The services included in your first 7,500-mile visit are the same during each maintenance visit. By the time you've covered 15,000 miles, you may find that your windshield wiper blades have worn down as well. If they start to scrape loudly across the glass or leave streaks on your windshield, it may be time to replace them.
22,500 Miles
Besides performing general maintenance tasks, such as changing the oil and filter, Chevy technicians will also replace the engine air filter and the cabin air filter after 22,500 miles. Additional services may include inspecting the cooling system hoses, fuel system, steering system, brakes system and fluid, and suspension system.
30,000 Miles
At 30,000 miles, Chevy recommends changing your oil and getting a new engine filter to ensure that your engine can receive clean and oxygenated air to the engine. Remember to rotate your tires and change your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles.
45,000 Miles
Once you've driven 45,000 miles, your Chevrolet Equinox is ready for another oil and filter change. Don't forget to rotate your tires for even tread. At this point, replacing the in-cabin air filter and the engine air cleaner filter is necessary. It's also a good time to inspect the transmission fluid, evaporative control system, ignition system, fuel system, exhaust system, and emission control system. If your car has a limited-slip differential, techs may also replace the rear axle fluid and spark plugs.
100,000 Miles
At 100,000 miles, it's time to replace your oil, oil filter, and spark plugs. If you don't have them replaced at this point, your vehicle may become sluggish with hesitation, hard starts, and poor fuel efficiency.
150,000 Miles
After you've driven 150,000 miles, the service technicians will flush and change the oil in your car and replace your oil filter and engine coolant in your Chevrolet Equinox. The engine fluid helps prevent the engine from overheating when it's hot or freezing over when it's cold. When you don't replace this often, the cooling system may start to corrode. Another important maintenance task is inspecting the coolant hoses and drive belts for wear.
Time for an Oil Change?
If you've driven over 7,000 miles since your last service, it may be time to book your car in for an oil change. Our expert technicians at Victorville Chevrolet in California will fully service your Chevy and have it back on the road in no time. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.
man refilling motor oil on car engine bay by Tim Mossholder is licensed with Unsplash License
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