How Often To Change Your Oil

Motor oil is a highly contested topic in the automotive world. If you are wondering how often you need to change it, you are not alone. The following information will help you make the best decision possible for your vehicle.

Why Do You Need To Change Your Oil?

Oil can be recycled and used again. As a result, many people are confused about why it needs to be changed in the first place.

It is important to remember that the oil in your car gets contaminated over time and doesn’t work as well. You want to do everything in your power to make sure your vehicle has what it needs to give you the best possible performance, day after day.

What About The 3,000 Mile Rule?

You probably heard that you should change your oil every three thousand miles. You may even follow that rule yourself. However, keep in mind that the people that recommend changing the oil at this interval are normally the ones that make money from it. In addition, the vehicles that are on the market today are much different than they were in the past. Technology has changed, and as a result, so have the guidelines for oil changes.

In fact, how often you need to change your oil depends on the manufacturer of your car, as well as the model of your vehicle.

Check Your Manual

Always read your manual to determine when you need to change your oil. Every car is different, so you cannot simply do what you did in the past. A mechanic is not always a reliable guide, either, because they ultimately want to make money and may not be familiar with the specifics of your car. Therefore, do your research. With your manual as your guide, you can make the best decision possible for your vehicle.

If your car notifies you that it is time for an oil change, you should heed that warning. Try to take your vehicle in as soon as possible once you get the alert.

Be Aware Of Your Driving Conditions

There are times that you may need to change your oil after driving only three thousand miles; in particular, this may be the case if your driving conditions are particularly difficult.

When it is hot outside, and you find yourself hitting the brakes in traffic often, it takes a toll on your car. If you have a long trip planned, but your average speed is less than 50 miles an hour, your oil may need to be changed sooner. Other factors that impact when to change your oil include driving on challenging roads (like those that have a lot of mud), pulling a camper or a trailer behind your vehicle and starting and stopping quickly. However, if none of these situations apply to you, you can likely wait much longer than three thousand miles between oil changes.

Hopefully, this information helps to clear up the myths surrounding oil changes. Ethan’s Honest Auto is committed to keeping customers safe while driving their motor vehicles. Let us help you with your oil change today!