Can You Just Add Oil to Your Car? The Real Answer Most Mechanics Won't Tell You
Adding oil to your car might seem like an easy fix, but it can hide serious engine problems. Learn when topping off is safe-and when it’s risking your engine.
When your car needs tyres, the rubber contact points between your vehicle and the road that affect handling, safety, and fuel efficiency. Also known as tires, they wear down over time and need regular checks to avoid dangerous failures. But tyres aren’t the only thing that keeps your car running right. Your brake pads, the friction material that stops your car by pressing against the rotors wear out too, and ignoring them can mean costly rotor damage. Then there’s the exhaust system, the network of pipes that carries fumes away from the engine and reduces noise—a cracked or rusted exhaust doesn’t just get loud, it can leak dangerous gases into your cabin. And let’s not forget engine oil, the lifeblood of your engine that lubricates moving parts and prevents overheating. Skipping oil changes or using the wrong type quietly eats away at your engine’s lifespan.
At Stevenage Tyres & Car Services, we see these issues every day. We fix slipping clutches, replace failing fuel pumps, diagnose bad shocks, and replace worn radiators—all with clear advice and no upselling. Whether you’re due for a tyre swap, need new brake pads, or just want to know if your oil’s still good, we give you straight answers. No jargon. No guesswork.
Below, you’ll find real, practical guides on exactly what to watch for, when to act, and how to save money without risking safety. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re the things our customers ask about every week.
Adding oil to your car might seem like an easy fix, but it can hide serious engine problems. Learn when topping off is safe-and when it’s risking your engine.
MERV 13 filters trap more pollutants but can strain home HVAC systems. Learn when they're helpful and when they cause more harm than good - with real advice for UK homes.
Learn the top signs your car's fuel pump is failing-no start, stalling, strange noises, poor fuel economy-and how to test it yourself before spending money on unnecessary repairs.
Learn how to quickly assess your car battery health with simple tools, step‑by‑step voltage and load tests, and tips to keep it running longer.
Learn how to spot failing shock absorbers, run quick DIY checks, understand replacement signs, and keep your car's suspension comfortable and safe.
Learn when to resurface or replace brake rotors, compare costs, safety factors, and get a clear guide to make the most affordable, safe decision.
Find out which exhaust system suits your car, from material choices to performance gains, with a practical buying guide for 2025.
Learn if you really need an empty fuel tank to replace a fuel pump, safety tips, step‑by‑step guide, tools list, and FAQs for DIY car owners.
Learn when you can replace brake pads without changing rotors, how to inspect rotors, costs, safety tips, and DIY vs professional advice.
Learn how to read your oil gauge or dipstick, understand temperature effects, and keep the engine oil level optimal to avoid costly damage.
Learn the true cost to replace a car radiator in the UK, what parts affect the price, and how to get the best estimate in 2025.
Learn the tell‑tale signs of a slipping clutch, why it happens, and when to replace the clutch kit. Practical tips help you diagnose and avoid costly repairs.