How to tell if they actually changed your car oil?

One of the main occasions when drivers question the mechanic's advice is when they are told they need an expensive part. Since most garages make no profit from parts, only from their labour, they are unlikely to lie unless they are reselling salvaged parts. If in doubt, ask to see the box or a receipt for the part.

The best guarantee of honest service is to only use reputable well-equipped garages. All Protyre garages have a high levels of professionalism. Most mechanics are passionate about motoring so very few are dishonest. Mistakes are usually due to lack of training, so again it is wiser to take advice from Protyre's fully qualified fitters.

Two common bones of contention are engine oil replacement and tyre change frequency. How often do you need to check or change your oil and tyres?
 
At Protyre garages, oil and tyre checks are completely free. All motorists should check their engine oil and tyres frequently but Protyre are happy to do it for you. In either case, regular checks allow you to monitor their condition and alert you in advance of the likely dates when a change will be needed.

Most manufacturers used to recommend oil changes every 3000 miles or every 3 months. Because modern motor oil and engines have improved, most owner manuals now suggest about 5000 miles, or twice per year. Always check your manual's recommendations. Some cars can go much further on synthetic oil – 7,000 miles is common, but don't pay for synthetic oil unless your manual recommends it.
 
These figures are only guidelines that assume average motoring conditions. Lots of short journeys degrade engine oil faster, as does hot weather. Even leaving a car sitting in a garage for a long period can degrade the oil, so never rely on the recommendation and always check the oil itself. Fresh engine oil is a transparent brown. Older oil turns black but may still be good, so always take your car usage into account. Thick goo, particles or a milky appearance mean you have a problem.

If you think your mechanic may not have changed your engine oil, check the colour. Ideally, do this before turning the engine because as soon as new oil circulates it may become blackened – especially in diesel engines. You can also check the sump plug: if the mechanic has recently drained the engine oil it will probably be clean.
 
Similarly with tyres, performing regular checks can help you to predict when they will need changing. Premium road tyres, like the Bridgestone Turanza T001, last longer than racing tyres or budget tyres. Your driving style also makes a difference so regular tyre checks are the only way to know when a tyre change is due.

We offer a range of free vehicle checks to help give you peace of mind motoring for yourself and your passengers, including battery, tyre, and exhaust checks. With same day appointments available in many instances, you’re bound to find a time and date to suit your needs. Simply click the button below to book online today.

Choosing the Right Tyre Made Easy

When it comes to your car's safety and performance, tyres can play a huge role. That's why we've put together a collection of helpful articles to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect tyres for your ride and maintaining your vehicle in general.

If you're looking for a smoother, more luxurious driving experience, premium car tyres might be the way to go. Or, if you want added security against flats, run flat car tyres could be your best bet. Trying to decide between summer car tyres and winter car tyres? We've got you covered there, too.

We also dive into the world of tyre brands, comparing top manufacturers like BF Goodrich tyres, Bridgestone tyres, Continental tyres, Dunlop tyres, Falken tyres, General tyres, Goodyear tyres, GT Radial tyres , Hankook tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Runway tyres, Sumitomo tyres, and Toyo tyres.

But we don't just stop at helping you choose the right tyres – we also share tips on how to keep them in tip-top shape. From checking your tread depth and keeping your tyres properly inflated to extending their life through regular rotation and balancing, our articles have got you covered.

So, whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking to keep your vehicle safe and reliable, our car help and advice articles are here to help you make informed decisions about your tyres. Check them out and feel confident in your tyre choices!