5 Oil Change Mistakes to Avoid: AMSOIL Oil Change Technician

January 21, 2026
An auto mechanic is checking the engine oil in a vehicle at a garage.

Regular oil changes are a simple yet critical part of vehicle maintenance, but not all oil changes are created equal. If you’re searching for an AMSOIL oil change technician in Anchorage, AK, Professional Automotive delivers the expertise, premium products, and meticulous service you need to keep your engine running strong. Many vehicle owners unintentionally make common mistakes when attempting their own oil change or visiting less experienced shops. In this blog, we’ll break down the top five mistakes drivers make and reveal how working with a certified AMSOIL expert can help you avoid costly pitfalls while enjoying the benefits of high-performance synthetic oils.


Why Proper Oil Changes Matter for Your Engine

A quality oil change isn’t just “routine maintenance”; it’s an investment in your vehicle’s longevity and reliability. When an AMSOIL oil change technician in Anchorage, AK, performs your service, they do more than swap out old oil. You benefit from advanced AMSOIL synthetic oil formulas, which provide greater engine protection, reduced friction, and longer intervals between services.


Consistent and professional oil changes can:

  • Prolong your engine’s life by reducing wear and tear.
  • Improve fuel efficiency over time.
  • Lower the risk of expensive engine repairs.
  • Keep your vehicle running smoothly, even in Alaska’s extreme temperatures.


Yet, even a task as basic as an oil change can go wrong if not done right.


The Top 5 Oil Change Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Even seasoned DIYers and busy repair shops can make these mistakes. Here’s what to watch for, and why turning to an AMSOIL oil change technician near Anchorage, AK, such as the crew at Professional Automotive, makes a world of difference.


1. Over-Tightening or Under-Tightening the Oil Filter

It’s easy to overtighten the oil filter, causing damage to the filter housing or, worse, making it nearly impossible to remove for your next oil change. Under-tightening, on the other hand, can lead to leaks. An AMSOIL oil change technician uses precision tools and the correct torque specs every time, preventing both issues and ensuring a perfect seal.


2. Forgetting to Replace or Properly Seat the O-Ring

One of the most common (and costly) mistakes is leaving the old O-ring behind or failing to securely seat the new one on the filter. A misplaced O-ring can cause catastrophic oil leaks, sometimes resulting in engine failure. Professional Automotive’s seasoned AMSOIL oil change experts always double-check for old O-rings and confirm that every new seal is properly installed before finishing the job.


3. Using the Wrong Type, Weight, or Grade of Oil

Not all engine oils are created equal. Choosing the wrong viscosity or a subpar conventional oil can harm an engine’s performance, especially in cold Anchorage, AK, winters. Certified AMSOIL oil change technicians exclusively use high-performance AMSOIL synthetics tailored to your specific make and model. This means superior lubrication, better cold starts, and outstanding protection, no matter what the Alaskan climate throws your way.


4. Neglecting to Replace the Oil Drain Plug Gasket

The oil drain plug gasket is tiny but vital. Reusing a worn gasket can lead to sneaky oil drips that go undetected until damage is done. The attention to detail you get from an AMSOIL oil change technician means they never overlook this step, saving you from unnecessary headaches down the road.


5. Not Topping Off or Inspecting Other Fluids

Many quick-lube shops treat oil changes as a “drive-through” service, skipping essentials like checking transmission, brake, coolant, and washer fluids. Professionals trained with AMSOIL oil change procedures always inspect related fluids and top them off if needed, heading off minor problems before they become major repairs.

Male mechanic refilling car oil in a service center.

The AMSOIL Synthetic Oil Advantage Over Conventional Oils

Your choice of oil profoundly impacts your vehicle’s health, especially over the long term. Let’s break down how AMSOIL synthetic oils deliver benefits far beyond traditional engine oils:


  • Superior Wear Protection: AMSOIL synthetics form a resilient lubricating film that prevents metal-to-metal contact, reducing engine wear and extending part life.
  • Clean Engine Operation: High-quality detergents keep internal engine components cleaner, reducing sludge and deposit buildup.
  • Stable Viscosity: Even in frigid Alaska winters or on hot summer days, AMSOIL retains optimal thickness. Your engine gets reliable protection from startup to shutdown.
  • Longer Service Intervals: AMSOIL’s high-quality base stocks and advanced additives allow for lengthier intervals between oil changes without sacrificing protection.
  • Improved Performance and Efficiency: Reduced friction means smoother performance, better gas mileage, and more reliable power.


By choosing an AMSOIL oil change technician in Anchorage, AK, from Professional Automotive, you’re ensuring your vehicle gets the best synthetic oil technology available combined with expert installation.


How Professional Automotive Earns Your Trust

Scheduling regular oil changes with a team committed to expertise and quality is crucial. The technicians at Professional Automotive undergo ongoing AMSOIL training and certification, ensuring every oil change gets their full attention. Our AMSOIL oil change technician uses precise procedures and includes multi-point inspections with every service, so nothing gets overlooked.


Professional Automotive’s many satisfied customers (see their testimonials here) speak to the team’s honesty, reliability, and attention to detail. And while you might live in Anchorage, AK, or the surrounding area, you can count on them for top-shelf AMSOIL oil changes whenever your vehicle is due.


Schedule Your Expert AMSOIL Oil Change Today!

Don’t let preventable oil change mistakes sideline your car or truck. Instead, choose the AMSOIL oil change technician in Anchorage, AK, who puts your engine first: Professional Automotive. Their certified staff, advanced oil technology, and meticulous approach guarantee your vehicle gets the care it deserves. Investing in regular, professional oil changes is the smartest way to protect your vehicle and enjoy peace of mind mile after mile. Contact us today!

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