How Often Should I Get My Oil Changed?
Keeping your car healthy involves routine maintenance, and oil changes are a crucial part of that. But with so much conflicting information out there, it's easy to get confused. You might have heard the old "change your oil every 3,000 miles" rule, but that doesn't necessarily apply to modern vehicles.
In this blog post, we'll decode the mystery of oil changes and help you determine the ideal frequency for your car.
Why the 3,000-Mile Rule Might Be Outdated
Back in the day, conventional motor oil broke down faster, and engines weren't as efficient. This meant more frequent oil changes were necessary. Today's synthetic oils last longer and perform better under extreme temperatures. Additionally, modern engines are built tighter and generate less friction, reducing wear and tear on the oil.
Factors Affecting Oil Change Frequency
Several factors can influence how often you need an oil change:
- Driving Conditions: Stop-and-go city traffic puts more stress on your engine oil than highway cruising. If you primarily do short trips, consider more frequent changes.
- Mileage: Even with modern oils, mileage still plays a role. Higher mileage vehicles might benefit from slightly shorter intervals between oil changes.
- Oil Type: Synthetic oils generally offer longer intervals compared to conventional oils. Check your owner's manual for the recommended type.
The Importance of Regular Oil Changes, According to Mike:
- Modern engines with turbochargers: These engines generate a lot of heat, which can "bake" the oil. Regular oil changes with high-quality oil are necessary to avoid oil degradation and protect the engine.
- Engine problems from infrequent changes: Mike has seen engine failures with low mileage due to what he believes is infrequent oil changes or poor quality oil. He mentions a Volkswagen Touareg with a timing chain tensioner failure and another car with a piston ring problem, both linked to lack of oil changes.
Mike emphasizes the benefits of following Wilton Auto's 6,000-mile interval:
- Prevents sludge buildup: Regular oil changes help prevent sludge from accumulating in the engine's tiny passages, ensuring proper oil circulation.
- Protects your engine: Good quality oil and frequent changes help extend engine life by reducing wear and tear.
- Allows for inspections: During oil changes, mechanics can inspect for leaks, tire wear, and other potential problems.
Our shop owner acknowledges that some manufacturers recommend longer intervals, but based on his experience, he believes more frequent changes with good oil are an "investment" that will help your car last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles.
Ready to change your oil at Wilton Auto and Tire Center?
