Oil Life Monitoring Systems
They aren't perfect...
If you own a newer vehicle, chances are it has an Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS). These systems work in concert with today’s more sophisticated engine oils and new vehicle technology, to extend oil change intervals. General Motors states that OLMS can extend oil drain intervals to 12 000 km. OLMS assesses data related to the vehicle’s operating conditions (engine temperature, stop and go versus highway driving, time, load, etc. ) gathered from the vehicle’s computerized control system. This information is fed into a software algorithm (i.e.. some math takes place) and the result is a reminder to the driver that it is time for an oil change.
Today’s OLMS has shortcomings. They don’t alert drivers to: low engine oil levels, or the fact that the oil -or the oil filter - isn’t the proper grade or specification to cope with the rigors of extended oil change intervals. If you rely solely on your new vehicle’s oil life monitor dashboard readout to gauge the state of its engine oil, you could potentially drive for thousands of kilometers with degraded oil, inadequate oil levels, the wrong oil,or a failing oil filter. Today’s oil life monitors don’t know everything... Check your engine oil level every time you fuel up. Also remember the other systems on your vehicle that need attention like brakes, steering, and suspension.
Nu-Tech: Your Oil and Lube Specialist
At Nu-Tech we have an extensive selection of premium oils and filters - including synthetic oils, designed to provide optimal performance in severe driving conditions and stand up to the rigors of extended oil change intervals. We welcome the opportunity to explain why these might be right for your vehicle or your driving style. At Nu-Tech our technicians will select the appropriate engine oil grade and specification for your foreign or domestic vehicle. We also will install a premium oil filter that will provide the filtration required for extended oil drain intervals that your OLMS may require.