Since driving requirements and lifestyles differ among Corpus Christi drivers, vehicle manufacturers publish two auto maintenance schedules: the regular schedule and the severe service schedule. Which schedule should you follow?
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
Are most of your trips less than four miles?
Are most of your trips less than 10 miles in below-zero Texas temps?
Are most of your trips off-highway?
Do you drive often in dusty areas?
Do you regularly tow a trailer or carry heavy loads around Corpus Christi?
Do you drive in very hot or very cold Texas weather?
Think about your typical week. Do you live by your nearest Corpus Christi freeway on-ramp and enjoy a non-stop commute to Corpus Christi or Rockport? Or, do you drive the neighborhood car pool in stop-and-go traffic on surface streets?
Let’s suppose your owner’s manual says the severe service oil change recommendation is 3,000 miles and the standard recommendation is 5,000 miles. You know that you need to change the oil somewhere between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. Analyze your driving patterns and Corpus Christi weather and road conditions to determine which end of the spectrum you’re closer to.
Why should Corpus Christi auto owners care about this? Normal condensation causes moisture accumulation in the engine oil. Short trips around Corpus Christi or winter driving means that the engine doesn’t heat up enough for the moisture to evaporate. The water in the oil turns to oil sludge that clogs up your engine and doesn’t let the oil protect it adequately. That’s why Texas motorists need to change their oil more often – to clean the sludge out before it causes problems.
Carrying heavy loads (with or without a trailer) in nice Texas summer weather causes your engine and transmission to run at higher temperatures and with more stress. The fluids will break down more quickly. Additives that clean and prevent corrosion will be depleted sooner. Air pollution and dust cause fluids to get dirty faster. Ditto for filters. All of these things can lead to premature wear and eventual repairs, not to mention your gas mileage. If you want some expert advice, talk with your honest Pro Automotive Center advisor. We can help you restore your vehicle to good working order and help you know the best schedule to follow.
To learn more, watch our informative AutoNetTV auto video tips at the top of this post.
Pro Automotive Center
361-980-3800
5854 Wooldridge Rd
Corpus Christi, Texas 78414