Changing your oil seems like it should be relatively simple. After emptying out the oil, replace the filter and then re-fill the oil. In some mechanics’ garages and quick-lube shops, though, “suction” or “siphon” oil changing methods are gaining popularity. What are the basic differences between suction oil changes and plug oil changes?
The traditional oil change
Gravity has been the method of choice to drain oil out of an engine for a very long time. A removable plug at the bottom of the engine holds the oil in. When that plug is removed, gravity drains the oil out of the engine. In most mechanic shops, the gravity method is still used to change the oil. Theoretically, the dirt within the oil pan is more likely to be removed with this method.
Oil changes with a suction machine
New machines that siphon or suction the oil out of the engine are making an appearance. Originally intended for boats, these machines attach to the dipstick tube and suck the oil out of the engine. As long as the oil filter is still changed each time, these machines supposedly work also as gravity oil changes. There are some enthusiasts who claim that these siphoning oil changes really get a lot more oil and gunk out of the engine during each change. Others, though, worry that the suction method of changing the oil might miss some of probably the most important parts of an oil change.
Should you try the siphoning oil change method?
In the end, a suctioning oil change will probably work about also as gravity oil changes. You should always make sure that an oil change contains a filter change. Check with your mechanic or quick-lube shop to find out what method they use to change the oil – or even ask to view, if you’d like. Changing your oil, no matter what method you use, is an important step in keeping your engine in good working order.
