Madison Heights, VA — In a town where reliable transportation is a must, Chrome Auto Repair is clearing the air, oil about some of the most common misconceptions vehicle owners still believe. As a family-owned shop with over 25 years of experience and certified ASE technicians, Chrome Auto Repair is setting the record straight with facts every car owner should know.
"We see it every week, customers worried they're overdue or being misled by outdated info," says Jeffrey Eddy, owner of Chrome Auto Repair. "Changing your oil at the right time protects your engine and saves money, but the truth often gets buried in old advice or internet rumors."
The first widespread myth is that all vehicles require oil changes every 3,000 miles. While that may have been true decades ago, most newer engines, especially those using synthetic oils can safely go 5,000 to 7,500 miles between changes. Some vehicles can even stretch to 10,000 miles when manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals are followed. Relying on outdated mileage rules can result in unnecessary expenses and wasted oil.
Another popular misconception is the belief that dark or black oil means it must be changed immediately. However, oil naturally darkens as it does its job cleaning engine components, trapping contaminants, and reducing friction. The oil’s color isn’t always an indicator of its performance. The real measure lies in consistency, smell, and overall driving conditions, which is why trusting a certified technician is far better than relying on appearance alone.
There’s also the myth that going anywhere other than a dealership for an oil change voids your vehicle’s warranty. This is simply false. Federal law protects consumers, allowing them to choose independent repair shops as long as those shops follow the automaker’s recommended maintenance schedule and use quality parts and fluids. At Chrome Auto Repair, every oil change adheres to strict standards, ensuring peace of mind without inflated dealership costs.
Equally important is debunking the idea that all motor oils are the same. From viscosity levels to additive blends, different engines require different oil types. Using the wrong oil can lead to poor fuel efficiency, increased wear, and even long-term engine damage. That’s why Chrome Auto Repair uses only premium brands like O'Reilly-approved oils, customized for each vehicle’s specific requirements.
The team at Chrome Auto Repair frequently helps customers navigate oil change myths that are commonly misunderstood across the auto industry.
Finally, some drivers still think that switching between synthetic and conventional oil is harmful. In truth, this is no longer a concern for most modern engines. As long as you stay within your manufacturer’s guidelines and the engine is well maintained, alternating between oil types is completely safe.
Located at 4998 S Amherst Hwy in Madison Heights, Chrome Auto Repair proudly serves not only its hometown but also the communities of Lynchburg, Sweet Briar, and nearby areas. Their comprehensive auto care services include brake inspections, steering, suspension, and transmission repairs, all performed by ASE-certified professionals using top-tier equipment.
When it comes to keeping your engine healthy, well-timed routine maintenance at Chrome includes more than just fresh fluid—they come with a complimentary 25-point inspection and a comfortable waiting area complete with free coffee.
"We’re not just about repairs, we’re about education," Eddy adds. "Because when drivers know better, they drive longer and safer. And that’s what we want for every customer who walks through our doors."
