Every vehicle owner knows that changing engine oil is a fundamental part of car maintenance. Yet despite its importance, the oil change process is surrounded by misconceptions, shortcuts, and errors that can lead to serious — and expensive — engine damage. At Carandtrucke, our experienced technicians have seen it all. In this guide, we walk you through the most common oil change and filter mistakes, and more importantly, how to avoid them.
One of the most widespread mistakes drivers make is waiting too long between oil changes. Many people still follow the outdated rule of changing oil every 5,000 kilometres regardless of their driving conditions. In reality, factors such as stop-and-go Nairobi traffic, dusty rural roads, and high ambient temperatures in Kenya can degrade engine oil much faster than expected. Modern vehicles may tolerate longer intervals, but older models and those driven under demanding conditions need more frequent attention. Always consult your owner’s manual and speak with a trusted technician at Carandtrucke to determine the right interval for your specific vehicle.
Another critical error is using the wrong type of oil. Engine oils come in various viscosity grades and formulations — conventional, synthetic, and semi-synthetic — and each vehicle is engineered to perform optimally with a specific type. Using the wrong viscosity can cause poor lubrication, increased engine wear, and even overheating. In Kenya’s varied climate, from the cool highlands to the hot coastal plains, selecting the right oil viscosity is especially important. Our team at Carandtrucke always matches the correct oil specification to your vehicle’s manufacturer requirements, ensuring your engine stays properly protected in every condition.
Not replacing the oil filter is another mistake that surprises many drivers. Some vehicle owners change the oil but leave the old filter in place, thinking it still has life left in it. This is a false economy. A used oil filter is already saturated with contaminants, metal particles, and sludge from the previous oil cycle. When you pour in fresh oil, it passes through that dirty filter and picks up those contaminants almost immediately. At Carandtrucke, we always replace the oil filter alongside every oil change — it is a small cost that delivers significant protection for your engine.
Overfilling or underfilling the engine with oil is a problem that occurs more often than you might think. Too little oil means insufficient lubrication, leading to friction and heat that can destroy engine components. Too much oil creates excessive pressure, causes foaming, and can damage seals and gaskets. Checking the dipstick carefully after an oil change, with the vehicle on a level surface, is essential. Our technicians at Carandtrucke follow a precise process to ensure the correct oil level every single time — no guesswork involved.
Ignoring warning signs between oil changes is another costly habit. Your vehicle communicates with you through its dashboard warning lights, unusual engine noises, and changes in performance. If the oil pressure light illuminates or you notice a knocking sound from the engine, do not delay — these are signs your engine may already be running low on oil or that the oil has broken down. Driving with degraded oil, even for short distances, can cause irreversible damage. Bring your vehicle to Carandtrucke immediately if you notice any of these warning signs.
Using low-quality or counterfeit oil and filters is a growing concern in Kenya. The market is unfortunately flooded with substandard products that do not meet the specifications they claim to. Inferior oils break down faster, fail to protect engine components adequately, and can cause long-term damage that costs far more to repair than the few shillings saved at purchase. At Carandtrucke, we source only genuine, quality-certified oils and filters from trusted suppliers, so you can have complete confidence in every service we perform.
Finally, neglecting to keep records of your oil change history is a mistake that many drivers overlook. A documented service history helps you track intervals accurately, supports warranty claims, and increases the resale value of your vehicle. At Carandtrucke, we maintain detailed service records for every client, giving you a clear picture of your vehicle’s maintenance history at all times.
Your engine is the heart of your vehicle, and clean, quality oil is its lifeblood. Avoiding these common mistakes does not require extensive mechanical knowledge — it simply requires partnering with a reliable, professional car repair team. At Carandtrucke, we are committed to keeping your vehicle in peak condition with expert oil change and filter services you can trust. Book your next service with us today and drive with confidence.