How to choose engine oil?
When choosing engine oil, first check your vehicle's manual; the manufacturer states the viscosity and quality grade required. Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is and is written like 5W-30 or 10W-40: the left number shows how it flows when cold, the right one when the engine is hot. Synthetic oil is made in a laboratory; it is more stable in extreme heat and cold and usually lasts longer. Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of mineral and synthetic base oils; it costs less but may not be as durable as fully synthetic. If you are not sure, tell us your vehicle model and we will find the right oil together.
When should the oil filter be changed?
The oil filter protects the engine by trapping metal dust and soot in the oil. Over time it fills up and can no longer clean the oil properly. That is why it is best to replace the filter at every oil change. Pouring fresh oil through an old, clogged filter spoils the oil's cleanliness from day one. The change interval depends on the vehicle and the type of oil, so check your vehicle's manual for the exact interval.
When should brake pads and discs be changed?
Brake wear usually gives warning signs first: a high-pitched squeal or metal grinding when braking, a vibrating pedal, the car pulling to one side, or a pedal that goes lower than usual. Pads should be replaced when their thickness drops to a few millimetres; if you hear metal on metal, the disc may already be damaged. If the disc surface is scored, warped or below its minimum thickness, it should be replaced together with the pads. Brakes directly affect your safety, so always have them checked if you are in doubt.
Why shouldn't antifreeze colours be mixed?
The colour of antifreeze helps identify the type of protective additives it contains; colours such as red, green, blue or orange vary by manufacturer. When antifreezes with different additive chemistry are mixed, they can react and form gel or sludge. This sludge can clog the radiator and cooling passages and cause the engine to overheat. The same colour does not always mean the same formula; the safest choice is a product that matches the specification in your vehicle's manual and the same type as the antifreeze already in the system.
