Blog Layout

What Oil is Right for Your Car’s Engine?

March 14, 2024

All cars are made different, and certain makes or models are prone to more specific service or maintenance. The most common service you will need to have performed is a motor oil change/service. The recommended time period between oil changes is unique for cars as well, some may suggest between 3-5,000 miles while others claim every 10,000 miles as the recommended time frame. It is wise to check your car’s user manual to find this information, however a technician can easily provide you with the same information.

Once you have determined that your vehicle needs its motor oil service, you may find yourself confused at the plethora of options available. There are four main types of engine oil, each with a slightly different application depending on your car’s age/mileage/purpose and even the climate you live in.

Synthetic Oil – The usual preferred choice, full synthetic oil performs better than conventional and remains stable in extreme hot and cold conditions. It is chemically engineered to preserve engine component’s lifespan across all platforms.

Synthetic Blend Oil – Synthetic blend is a blend of conventional and synthetic, typically a bit more cost effective than full synthetic. This is recommended for SUVs and pickup trucks as it is best suited for heavier loaded vehicles and can provide higher gas mileage.

High Mileage Oil – Higher mileage cars have a tendency to burn oil or leak, and this option is designed to minimize or prevent that through use of unique additives. This is the choice for a high mileage vehicle that you want to get the most out of.

Conventional Oil – Quite simply this is the tried and tested norm. Conventional oil is available in the widest range, and performs best in traditional engine layouts. Unless you push your car often, it provides most benefits through a relaxed and easy going driving style.

Once you have determined the type of oil best for your car and driving style, you need to find one that will work with your car. Motor oil is rated by viscosity, which means how quickly the oil will heat up and thin, and how it will perform at different temperatures.

This is rated by two numbers, for example a “10W-40” motor oil. In this example “10W” is the viscosity of the oil at 0°F or in cold weather; this number determines how thick the oil would be at that temperature. If you live in a cold climate you would want this number to be lower so it would flow better on a winter morning, where in more warm climates you would want a higher number to prevent the oil from being too thin.

The second number “40” determines the oil’s viscosity at 212°F, this is an average temperature that your engine will be running at during normal use. More specifically this determines the likelihood of the motor oil thinning out at higher temperatures. A higher number means it will retain viscosity at higher temperatures where a lower number will thin out faster. For an engine that runs hot, or exposed to long drives in desert heat, a higher number means the oil will protect engine components and keep the engine running correctly.

As always these are not questions you need to answer yourself. Your Eurosense technician will recommend what is best for you and make sure your car is performing at its best. However if you have any questions or concerns just give us a call and ask! Regularly changing your engine’s motor oil will improve gas mileage and extend the life of your car. If you are unsure of the last time you changed your oil we will be glad to help.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

How Regular A/C Services Keep Your Car Cool and Comfortable

March 20, 2025

At EuroSense in Branford, CT, we understand the importance of a properly functioning air conditioning (A/C) system in your vehicle, especially during the hot summer months. Whether you're driving to work, heading out on a road trip, or simply running errands, a cool and comfortable ride makes all the difference. But did you know that regular A/C services are key to ensuring your system continues to perform at its best? In this post, we’ll walk you through how regular A/C services help keep your car cool and comfortable and why it’s crucial for maintaining the overall health of your vehicle’s climate control system. The Importance of a Healthy A/C System Your vehicle’s A/C system does more than just cool the air inside the cabin. It helps to regulate the interior temperature, reduce humidity, and remove unpleasant odors. Over time, however, just like any other system in your vehicle, the A/C can experience wear and tear. Without proper maintenance, the system may start to lose efficiency or even fail altogether. A properly maintained A/C system not only ensures that your car stays comfortable during extreme weather conditions, but it also contributes to better overall vehicle performance. Regular A/C services at EuroSense will ensure your system stays in top condition, offering you a comfortable driving experience every time. How Regular A/C Services Benefit You 1. Prevents Costly Repairs One of the most significant benefits of regular A/C services is that it helps prevent expensive repairs down the road. Small issues, such as low refrigerant levels or dirty filters, can lead to bigger problems, such as compressor failure or clogged evaporators. By scheduling routine A/C maintenance at EuroSense in Branford, CT, you can catch minor problems early and address them before they require costly repairs. 2. Improves Cooling Efficiency Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in your A/C system, reducing its efficiency. A dirty air filter or evaporator coil can restrict airflow and make it harder for the system to cool the air inside your car. Regular A/C services, including cleaning and replacing the air filter, will help your system work more efficiently, ensuring that the cabin remains cool, even on the hottest days. If your A/C isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, it’s a clear sign that it needs attention. One of our technicians at EuroSense can assess your system, identify any issues, and perform the necessary services to get your A/C working at its best. 3. Maintains Optimal Refrigerant Levels Your A/C system uses refrigerant to cool the air, and over time, it may lose some refrigerant due to normal wear or small leaks. Low refrigerant levels can reduce the efficiency of the A/C system and even cause the compressor to overheat or fail. During an A/C service at EuroSense , we will check the refrigerant levels, inspect for leaks, and recharge the system if necessary. This ensures that the system runs efficiently and prevents further damage to the compressor or other components. 4. Improves Air Quality Inside Your Car A well-maintained A/C system does more than just keep you cool; it also improves the air quality inside your vehicle. Over time, mold, mildew, and bacteria can build up inside the evaporator coils and air filters. This can lead to unpleasant odors and even respiratory issues if left unchecked. Regular A/C servicing includes cleaning the system to remove bacteria and mold, ensuring that the air inside your car is fresh and free from harmful particles. This is especially important for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions. EuroSense can ensure that the air you breathe inside your vehicle is clean and comfortable. 5. Enhances Fuel Efficiency A well-maintained A/C system can also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. When your A/C system is functioning properly, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to power the compressor. On the other hand, a malfunctioning A/C system can put additional strain on the engine, leading to reduced fuel efficiency. By maintaining your A/C system with regular services, you’ll not only stay comfortable but also save money at the gas pump by improving your vehicle’s overall efficiency. 6. Prevents A/C System Breakdown One of the worst things that can happen during the heat of summer is for your A/C system to suddenly stop working. A system breakdown can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially if it happens when you need it the most. Regular A/C services help to extend the life of your system by ensuring that all components are functioning properly. During our A/C maintenance services at EuroSense , we inspect every part of the system, from the compressor to the condenser, to ensure everything is in good working order. Catching potential problems early can prevent a complete system failure and save you from the stress and expense of an emergency repair. 7. Signs That Your A/C System Needs Attention While regular maintenance is crucial, it’s also important to stay on top of any warning signs that your A/C system may need attention. Here are some common signs to watch out for: Weak or Warm Air: If your A/C isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, it could be a sign of low refrigerant levels, a clogged filter, or a malfunctioning compressor. Strange Noises: Grinding or squealing noises when the A/C is on could indicate a problem with the compressor or fan. Unpleasant Odors: A musty or foul smell could be a sign of mold or bacteria buildup in the system. Leaks: If you notice any fluid leaking under your vehicle or around the A/C components, it’s a sign of a leak that needs to be addressed. If you experience any of these issues, don’t wait until they worsen. Schedule an appointment with EuroSense in Branford, CT, and our experienced technicians will diagnose and fix the problem quickly. Why Choose EuroSense for Your A/C Service in Branford, CT? At EuroSense , we are committed to providing high-quality, reliable A/C services to our customers in Branford, CT, and the surrounding areas. Our team of experienced technicians uses the latest tools and techniques to diagnose, maintain, and repair your vehicle’s A/C system. We understand the importance of staying cool and comfortable while driving, and we work hard to ensure that your A/C system is always performing at its best. Whether it’s time for routine maintenance or your A/C system needs a repair, EuroSense is here to help. We offer affordable, efficient, and professional A/C services to keep you comfortable on the road. Schedule Your A/C Service Today Don’t wait until the hot summer months to find out that your A/C system isn’t working properly. Schedule your A/C service at EuroSense in Branford, CT, today. Our expert technicians will ensure your A/C system is working efficiently, keeping your vehicle cool and comfortable all year long.