We all know that regularly changing the motor oil in our car’s engine, as well as the air-filter, is one of the most important things to keep a vehicle running smoothly. However, the average driver with little or no knowledge about motor oil and auto engines will have many questions about the subject involving when and where to change car engine oil, and which recommended motor oil is best for their car’s engine. To help you better understand the process and recommendations for changing your motor oil, here are some answers to frequently asked questions.

1) When should I change my oil? – The answer to this questions varies from the type of motor oil you are using and the year, make, and model of your vehicle. Motor oil is either made from petroleum-based chemicals, or is synthetically manufactured using non-petroleum-based chemicals compounds. Petroleum-based motor oil should be changed every three to five thousand miles, where as some synthetic motor oil solutions don’t need to be changed from seven to ten thousand miles.

2) Where can I get an oil change? – Knowing where to change car engine oil is as easy as locating the nearest professional oil changing station, or an auto repair shop. With some basic research, you can change your motor oil on your own at home as well. However, motor oil is extremely hazardous to the environment, and needs to be recycled properly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over two hundred million gallons of used oil are improperly disposed of each year. Having your motor oil changed by a professional will ensure that it will be properly recycled. It takes about 42 gallons of crude oil to produce 2.5 quarts of new motor oil, but recycling just one gallon of used oil produces the same amount.

3) Which motor oil should I use? The type of motor oil required for your engine varies from year, make and model of your car. To understand exactly what type of motor oil is best for your car’s engine, consult the owner’s manual for your car.