How Often Should You Change Your Oil? 

Just like filling up your tank with gas, your oil needs changed regularly. But, how do you know when it’s time? 

A good rule of thumb used to be every 3,000 miles. However, with a significant amount of improvements in fuel-delivery systems, engine materials and manufacturing methods, modern engines driven normally can stretch to every 7,500 miles or so. So… how do you really know what is best for your vehicle? 

There are various factors that go into how long you should wait until your next oil change. For starters, you can follow the oil type, mileage and time recommendations that are in your owner’s manual. (Lost your owner’s manual? Just look it up online!)

In most cases, we suggest your first oil change at 5,000 miles. For newer vehicles, it is definitely easier to stretch out after that 5k mark. Whereas older vehicle’s might need to get checked more frequently. 

Aside from when the vehicle was manufactured, driving habits can also play a huge role in how often you get your oil changed. According to AAA*, severe service can include:

• Short trips (5 miles or less)
• Extreme weather conditions (hot or cold)
• Sustained stop-and-go traffic driving
• Carrying heavier items such as towing or a trailer

If you fall into any of these categories, you might require your vehicle being serviced for an oil change more frequently than expected. 

There are also different types of oil you can put into your car. Using more premium synthetic oils, while more expensive, will allow you to go longer without changing your oil. 

Whenever you have your car’s oil changed, our service technician will reset the oil-life monitoring system as well as put a sticker on your vehicle that says when you should come back based on either mileage or the date. However, if you’re still unsure, talk to your technician/service advisor on what they recommend for your specific vehicle! 

Want to check/change the oil on your own? Check out our How-To video on YouTube

Need to schedule an Oil Change with us? Make an appointment today – Schedule

* https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/how-often-should-you-change-engine-oil