Will Doing Your Own Oil Changes Void Your Warranty?
An oil change is an essential step in vehicle maintenance. If you’re a long-time vehicle owner, you know that it’s something that you must budget for and invest time to ensure you can maintain your vehicle performance and to protect your warranty. Are oil changes covered under warranty? Will doing your own oil changes void your warranty? These are some questions we will attempt to answer in this guide, so be sure to keep reading.
Key Takeaways
• Changing your own oil will not void your warranty, unless it directly causes engine damage or trouble. In which case, the burden is on the warranty provider to show a link.
• Follow the manufacturer’s specifications when doing your own oil change to avoid voiding your warranty.
• Aside from oil change, it is essential to keep up with other preventive maintenance procedures for your car to ensure it performs optimally and achieve longevity.
Will Doing Your Own Oil Changes Void Your Warranty?
No. Doing your own oil changes will not void your warranty.
The only way that a DIY oil change will void your warranty is when it directly caused a problem on your engine or you used the wrong oil. In the succeeding section, you will learn about the specific guidelines and requirements that manufacturers impose in choosing which oil to use on your car.
It is illegal for a warranty provider to deny your claim simply because you changed your own oil – keep that in mind. But, as a consumer, you have the responsibility to familiarize the terms of your warranty as the reason for denial could be because of some other reasons. For example, using the wrong oil has caused an engine damage, then you will not be covered by your warranty for the repair of that engine damage as it was your own fault.
And are oil changes covered by warranty? The answer is no. Warranties only cover for the repair and replacement of certain parts and components.
Guidelines When Changing Your Own Oil
If you want to avoid the possibility of your warranty voided by changing your own oil, make sure to follow these specific guidelines:
• Read the manufacturer’s manual and make sure you use the right type of oil on your engine type or vehicle model. Car manufacturers specify the oil you must use to meet the stringent emission requirements and for optimal vehicle performance.
• Follow the recommended schedule and frequency. The longer you wait in between oil changes, the more at risk your engine is to damage.
How to Prove Oil Change for Warranty
Whether you do your own oil change or let an experienced mechanic do this for you, always keep a receipt and record of your oil change schedule. You will use that document to prove to the warranty provider that you keep up with your vehicle’s routine maintenance schedule.
Being on top of your car’s maintenance schedule is a preventive step to causing damage to your vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to show the warranty provider that any damage that require repair or replacement in your car was not directly caused by your negligence.
Other Tips to Keep Your Car in the Best Shape
Regular oil change is crucial to keeping your car in the best shape, but it’s not the only one. There are other ways to ensure your car improves its performance and longevity. These routine maintenance services should be done periodically and at a schedule to ensure that each component is in the best condition.
Once a month, you should check your car’s fluid levels and top them off as required. You must also inspect the air filter to eliminate excess dirt and debris. Additional checks include the brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to make sure they’re all working.
Every few months, you must change the filters and examine the belts and hoses. Make sure to rotate the tires every six months to ensure even tire wear. At this point, you should check the brakes to ensure they are working properly.
Annually, you should check the windshield wipers to ensure they are working and if they must be replaced. Also, test if the batteries are holding the charge well.
The long-term maintenance services for your car includes checking the transmission for optimal performance.
Even if there are no issues with your car’s performance, it is crucial to take them to a trusted mechanic to assess the internal parts and components. It is cheaper to address any issues at the beginning instead of later when they have developed into a more serious issue.
FAQs
Does using synthetic oil void warranty?
No. Using synthetic oil does not automatically void your warranty, but some engines have specific requirements on the type of oil to use, so you must comply with those requirements, if necessary.
Does an oil change come under warranty?
A warranty covers for the repair and replacement of faulty internal components and parts. However, it will not cover the servicing and upkeep of your vehicle, which includes oil changes.
How often should you change your oil?
The ideal frequency for oil changes is between 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, it varies from one vehicle to another based on various factors, such as the car’s condition (if it’s brand new or used), the weather in your location, and driving conditions. For newer cars, frequent oil changes are required due to the advanced engineering and improved oil formulations, allowing you to go longer in between oil changes.
