Oil Changes

Why Follow the Kia Canada Recommended Service Schedule for Oil Changes?

All internal combustion engines require oil to lubricate moving parts, maintain temperature, and to keep the engine functioning properly. Over time, the fast-moving parts breakdown the oil and lessen its ability to absorb heat and lubricate the engine. The result is that the engine, and therefore your vehicle, won’t last as long as it could have with regular maintenance.

Oil and Filter Changes at Kia Victoria

KIA Victoria is your warranty-approved oil change specialist for Southern Vancouver Island. We understand your vehicle is an integral part of your life, and you want it to last. Regular oil changes are imperative to maintain your warranty and keep your vehicle running smoothly for a long reliable life on the road.

Why Regular Oil Changes are Important

All internal combustion engines require oil to lubricate moving parts, maintain temperature, and to keep the engine functioning properly. Over time, the fast-moving parts breakdown the oil and lessen its ability to absorb heat and lubricate the engine. The result is that the engine, and therefore your vehicle, won’t last as long as it could have with regular maintenance.

Manufacturer Recommendations

You can follow the normal maintenance schedule listed in your Kia owner’s manual (section 7), which states that the engine oil and filter must be replaced every 12,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first). However, Kia Canada recommends that the engine oil and filter be replaced every 6 000 km or 6 months, due to severe driving conditions in Canada, even on Vancouver Island. For additional information, you can access our online Recommended Service Schedule.

6 SIGNS YOUR CAR IS OVERDUE FOR AN OIL CHANGE

We get it. You don’t want to pay for what you don’t need. So, let’s take a peek at the Top 6 major signs you may need to see us for an oil change.

1. Your Engine is Making New Noises

Knocking, grinding, or engine roaring could be an indication that you’re overdue for an oil change. New oil keeps your engine lubricated and running smoothy. As your oil ages, it loses some of these lubricating properties. This can cause premature wear on the engine due to parts rubbing together.

2. Oil Stains Under Your Car

As your vehicle ages the gaskets and seals begin to wear causing microscopic cracks and fissures. As time goes on, the internal oil pressure forces leakages through these openings. A small leak will inevitably become larger if ignored, reducing oil pressure in the engine and potentially causing extensive damage. If you have a leak, our service specialists will diagnose the problem and present the best options to repair the issue.

3. Low Oil Pressure Light

Your engine needs proper oil pressure for the components to stay properly lubricated. Deficient oil pressure increases the friction and risks permanent damage. Low oil pressure can be caused by the level being too low or by malfunctions of the oil pump or engine itself. If your dashboard oil pressure light comes on and stays on, or if it comes on while the engine is running (even if it turns off quickly), your engine requires attention. Our service team will assess the issue and present you with the most cost-effective options to repair the problem.

4. Burning Smell Inside the Vehicle

While oil is used for lubrication of fast-moving engine parts, it’s also there to regulate engine temperature. As the oil ages, it can’t keep your engine at its ideal temperature as effectively. If you smell burning, it could indicate an oil leak or an engine that’s overheating and in need of an oil change.

6. Your Vehicle or Window Sticker Says it’s Time!

Or maybe you’ve received a friendly reminder call or email/text from us. We love your Kia as much as you do and want it running smoothly for a long life on the road. If the sticker indicates it’s been 6000 kms or 6 months, or 12,000 or 12 months on the high end, it’s time to book in to see us.