AN expert mechanic has revealed a big mistake petrol and diesel car owners are making.
Scotty Kilmer, who has 55 years of experience in the motors industry, says this blunder can cost drivers thousands in repairs.
Scotty Kilmer has warned drivers to check their oil levels
He says motorists should watch out when putting oil in engines.
The motors whizz took to YouTube to explain that drivers could “blow the seals out of the engine” and could even “jam the pistons” by ignoring the advice.
He explained: “Today I’m going to show you what happens if you put too much oil in your engine.
“Now I’ve seen people put four quarts of oil in an engine that takes four quarts but they have forgotten to drain the other stuff out.
“So they had eight quarts and it actually destroyed their engine because if you have that much oil it can actually jam in on the pistons and it can bend the piston rods making you need a complete engine overhaul.
“But even if you’re just a quart or two over the full you can blow the seals out of the engine, the rear main seal of the engine requires pulling the engine out to replace it. It’s an expensive repair.”
Kilmer is now warning drivers to check their oil levels regularly.
How often should I change my car’s oil?
As a general rule, you should change your engine oil every 3,000-5,000 miles or approximately every six months.
Depending on your car’s age, oil type and driving conditions, you may be able to change the oil every 7,500-10,000 miles.
You can check your owner’s manual to find out exactly how often the manufacturer recommends to change your oil.
Over time, oil begins to break down and can become contaminated with dust and dirt.
If you’re engine isn’t properly lubricated, it can cause your car to overheat and break down.
Routinely changing your oil can help to keep your vehicle on the road and avoid costly repairs to your engine.
Maintaining your engine oil properly can also reduce fuel consumption and the longevity of your vehicle.
He added: “Now that’s what dipsticks are for. They’ve got two lines. A low line and a full line, Always make sure it does not go over the full line.
“Don’t check your engine oil on a hill. Always check it on a flat surface after it’s sat at least five minutes for it to drain to the right level.”
It comes after Scotty revealed why he would never buy an electric car, and called its benefits a myth.
Elsewhere, a mechanic lifted the lid on why you should always get an expert to regas your aircon.
Meanwhile, The Sun offered a look inside the UK’s electric vehicle charging fiasco, with owners saying they felt “stitched up” by the push to go green on the roads.