Since driving requirements and lifestyles differ among Kalispell motorists, Subaru vehicle manufacturers publish two auto maintenance schedules: the regular schedule and the severe service schedule. Which schedule should Kalispell drivers follow?
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
Are most of your trips less than four miles around Kalispell?
Are most of your trips less than 10 miles in below-zero MT temps?
Are most of your trips off-highway in MT?
Do you drive often in dusty Kalispell areas?
Do you regularly tow a trailer or carry heavy loads around Kalispell?
Do you drive in very hot or very cold MT weather?
Think about your typical week. Do you live by your nearest Kalispell freeway on-ramp and enjoy a non-stop commute to Kalispell or Whitefish? Or, do you drive the neighborhood car pool in stop-and-go traffic on Kalispell surface streets?
Let’s suppose your owner’s manual says the severe service oil change recommendation is 3,000 miles and the standard recommendation is 5,000 miles. You know that you need to change the oil somewhere between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. Analyze your driving patterns and Kalispell weather and road conditions to determine which end of the spectrum you’re closer to.
Why should Kalispell car owners care about this? Normal condensation causes moisture accumulation in the engine oil. Short trips around Kalispell or winter driving means that the engine doesn’t heat up enough for the moisture to evaporate. The water in the oil turns to harmful oil sludge that clogs up your engine and doesn’t let the oil protect it adequately. That’s why MT auto owners need to change their oil more often – to clean the sludge out before it causes problems.
Carrying heavy loads (with or without a trailer) in sunny MT summer weather causes your engine and transmission to run at higher temperatures and with more stress. The fluids will break down more quickly. Additives that clean and prevent harmful corrosion will be depleted sooner. Air pollution and dust cause fluids to get dirty faster. Ditto for filters. All of these things can lead to premature wear and eventual repairs, not to mention your MPG. If you want some expert advice, talk with your professional and courteous Loren's Auto Repair advisor. We can help you restore your Subaru to good working order and help you know the best schedule to follow.
To learn more, watch our informative AutoNetTV auto video tips at the top of this post.
Loren's Auto Repair
406-755-7757
1309 US Hwy 2 West
Kalispell, MT 59901
