How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?

The Importance of Oil Changes

"Man pulling oil dipstick to check engine oil level" licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Flickr by Ivan Radic

Oil eases friction between parts within your engine and helps keep your car functioning properly. Without oil, engine parts rub together and create unnecessary friction that can affect your car's health. Proper oil levels can help manage the temperature within your car so it doesn't overheat. Many warranties also require drivers to change their oil frequently to prevent damage, so it might be helpful to study the details of any warranties covering your vehicle. Regular oil changes can also help maintain your car's engine by preventing sludge buildup and reducing the likelihood of rust.

Oil Change Frequency

Every car has unique needs, but auto experts estimate that most cars need oil changes every six months or 3,000 miles. Many factors can influence the frequency of oil changes, like the type of oil you use, how old your car is, how you drive, and how often you drive. Newer cars typically allow a bit more flexibility, and some modern engines can handle up to 7,500 miles between services. 

Some engines that use full-synthetic motor oil only require changes every 15,000 miles. If you drive an older vehicle, try to schedule a service every 3,000 miles. For drivers who put less than 3,000 miles on their car in a year, it's still helpful to get an annual oil change to maintain your vehicle's condition. If you want a more exact oil change schedule customized to your car and driving habits, you can complete a consultation with one of our certified technicians.

Usage

It's important to learn how usage affects your need for oil changes so you can schedule services as needed. If you drive an older car in severe weather, take frequent trips under five miles, tow heavy loads, or make frequent stops while driving, as you might in a busy urban environment, it's beneficial to maintain a meticulous oil change schedule. That's because these activities can deplete your oil levels quickly, and it's vital that you oil your car properly to continue performing these types of tasks.

Oil Change Indicators

There are many ways to determine when you should get an oil change. You can rely on your car's notification system, its function, or self-directed tests to learn if it's time for service. Here are some methods you can use:

Automatic Notifications

Most modern vehicles alert you when they're low on oil using a light on the dashboard. This can be a helpful reminder to schedule a service appointment. Each make and model uses a different notification, but you can learn to interpret your car's dashboard notifications by reading your owner's manual. Some cars might prompt you to schedule an oil change by flashing an image of a blinking oil can, while others might just tell you to schedule service soon. 

Some cars notify you based on mileage and time, but others may have the technology to interpret your car's specific oil condition. It might be helpful to use a backup system to track your oil level because vehicle notifications aren't always reliable. If a system error shows you the alert late or skips it altogether, you could miss important information.

Self-Checking Your Oil

You can check your oil yourself to learn if it's ready for service using your car's oil dipstick. Review your owner's manual to learn how to handle your car's engine and find the oil dipstick. First, turn your engine off and open the hood of your car. Once you've located the oil dipstick, remove it from the engine and clean it off. Then, you can put it back into the oil, inserting the dipstick completely to ensure your read is correct. 

When you pull it out again, the amount of oil on the stick gives you the status of your oil. Your dipstick likely has labels denoting which levels are high and which are low. It might label these using letters, words, or cross-hatched lines. If your oil fall below the minimum area, you're likely due for an oil change.

Strange Sounds and Vehicle Function

Oil helps the parts inside your car operate without rubbing against each other. If you hear unfamiliar noises from the engine while you're driving your car, this could mean your oil levels are low. Any strange sounds or changes in vehicle function are cause for concern. If you notice your car isn't operating properly, bring it to a mechanic immediately. They can check if the changes are due to low oil levels.

Oil Types

There are many kinds of oil, and using the right type of oil can help you stay safe, extend your vehicle's life, and remain compliant with any warranties. If your car is fairly new, it likely needs a synthetic-blend or full-synthetic, low-viscosity, multi-grade oil. If it's compatible with your engine, you can even select long-life oil. This type of oil can last between 5,000 and 15,000 miles in some cars. However, it's important to study your car's needs before using long-life oil. 

To choose the right for your car, it's important to learn what SAE viscosity grade your make and model requires and what distinctions your car's manufacturer makes about oil quality. Your owner's manual might have information about what type of oil is best for your car. If you're unsure what kind of oil to use on your vehicle, one of our qualified technicians at Tom Wood Auto Group can help you.

Keeping proper oil levels in your engine can help protect you on the road and increase your car's longevity. Routine service appointments are crucial for vehicle maintenance, and working with an expert can ensure your car gets the treatment it needs. If it's time for you to schedule an oil change, schedule a service with our team at Tom Wood Auto Group.