The winter season is long and cold, and simple tasks can be a lot more challenging to complete. Even our cars can behave differently during these colder months, so it’s important to winterize your vehicle by putting on winter tires, getting the right brand of windshield washer fluid, and even getting new brakes. Most drivers are aware of these steps, but many people forget to consider their oil and are unaware that cold weather can affect its viscosity.

The reality is that you may have to change your oil more often in the winter, so you have to pay attention to this aspect as you may have to switch oil types. This will depend on the type of oil you use throughout the year, as this information may lead you to switch to a more viscous oil between the months of November and March. However, you do have to be careful because switching to an oil that is too thin may be problematic, as it may not provide enough lubricant to your engine. Consulting your owner’s manual is a must, as this will tell you exactly how to proceed based on the make and model of your car.

Those who have automatic reminders on their dash may notice that reminders for oil changes will come more frequently during the winter months, but you don’t have to worry because this does not mean that your vehicle is broken, and it’s highly likely that your sensors are working just fine. It could just be that your sensor is picking up on the thickness of the oil, which is preventing it from moving freely within the moving parts of your engine.

Condensation and your car not spending enough time at the proper running temperature are the two main reasons why the cold affects your engine oil. If you’re wondering how often you should change your oil in the winter, the answer will vary as it will depend on how often your vehicle requires oil changes during the warmer months. Whether or not you use conventional or synthetic oil will also affect this answer but generally speaking, every 5,000 – 7,000 kilometers is considered normal, so you can consider changing your oil at this frequency. This is also a relatively low-cost way to maintain your vehicle and ensure it remains in optimal running condition.

If you’re concerned about the oil in your car and think it’s time for a change, the experts at Cars R Us can help! We specialize in car repairs, and our reputable mechanics will provide you with honest feedback. If you are looking for an auto repair shop in the Brampton area, contact us today!