Taking proper care of your car means being knowledgeable about Nissan Altima auto parts. In particular, the oil filter is more complicated than many people realize, but is also necessary for maintaining a safe vehicle. This means knowing how to change the oil filter and how to properly dispose of used oil.
The Importance of Your Car’s Oil Filter
Thanks to modern engine technology and better efficiency, you likely no longer need to change your vehicle’s oil every 3,000 miles; in fact, some models even allow you to wait up to 10,000 miles now. That doesn’t lessen the importance of your Nissan Altima oil and its oil filter, though. The oil filter keeps your vehicle’s oil as clean as possible as it moves throughout your engine’s pieces, lubricating them to prevent too much friction that can lead to overheating and even larger car problems.
How an Oil Filter Works
As soon as you put new oil into your car, it begins to attract metal flakes or older deposits, and as it continues to cycle through your engine, it begins to oxidize. If stray particles lodge themselves into the passages, which can be as small as 0.002 inches, they could cause the car to overheat. Enter the oil filter. Whether you purchase Nissan Altima oil filters or another brand, you must be sure your car is protected. For this reason, it is important to realize there are two types of filter. Compact canister filters are easy to remove or install as a single piece, while the other type of filter attaches to a cap in the housing and requires a more strenuous installation process. Ensure you get the right one to meet your needs.
Why It’s Important to Recycle Old Motor Oil
Did you know that you can recycle your motor oil? When you toss your motor oil out indiscriminately, you risk it polluting the soil and water in your community. Additionally, throwing out oil causes it to use more energy than if you were to refine the oil from a base stock. Simply put, oil is reusable. It gets dirty, but it doesn’t wear out. Recycling it means you help to save one of Earth’s valuable resources.
How To Recycle Car Oil
Chances are you’re wondering how to get rid of car oil. First, you must catch it all and keep it contained. You’ll need a drain pain with a screen on top that is useful for catching the drain plug. If you accidentally drop any, you’ll need to soak it up with an oil absorber and then clean with a degreaser. Transfer the oil to a clean container with a tight lid, avoiding mixing it with other car fluids, to move it. Finally, take your oil to a place that recycles it. Some options include an auto parts store or a verified waste recycling facility.
If you aren’t sure how to change your car’s oil or its filter on your own, always contact a professional. Doing so ensures the protection of you, your car, and your community’s environment. Many auto parts stores also provide instruction to help you learn to take care of your vehicle by yourself.