Engine oil changes are very important for the smooth running of a motor vehicle, according to Kurt Harding, an auto mechanic who works in Kingston.

"The motor vehicle oil eventually wears out and its additives get used up," he said. Harding said oil provides the final seal for pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls, ensuring good compression. He explained that some motorists, unfortunately, overlook the multiple task that is charged to the engine oil.

In addition to water and fuel, there are various types of oil and fluids that the car needs to function efficiently:

The engine oil: the job of the engine oil is to to stop all the metal surfaces in the engine from grinding. It also has to dissipate the heat generated from this friction. The oil transfers heat away from the combustion cycle.

The gear oil: This is only used with standard motor cars and it lubricates the gearbox. This allows for easy changing of gears as without it there would be friction. It must be noted that automatic cars use automatic transmission fluid.

The brake fluid: Three main types of brake fluids come to mind — DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5. Dot 3 and 4 are glycol-based fluids and DOT 5 is silicon-based.

Power steering fluid: This fluid lubricates and transmits the pressure needed for power-assisted steering. The motorist should check the power steering fluid level at every oil change.

Coolant: When checking the coolant you are looking for quantity of liquid in the system and the condition of the liquid. It protects against rust and corrosion in the radiator.

- Paul Messam