Regular oil changes are an important part of automotive preventive maintenance that helps engines run efficiently. Ignoring regular oil changes could cause greater friction and heat inside engines, damaging parts over time. If you're unsure how long you should drive with the same oil in your car, here are some tips to help you determine what's the best oil change interval for your vehicle.
The Owner's Manual Suggests Oil Change Intervals
The first place you should check to determine the best intervals for oil changes is the owner's manual that should have come with your vehicle. Virtually every owner's manual has recommended service intervals that should be followed. The intervals change based on the expected service lives of various parts, components, and fluids. The manual should say how long you should go between oil changes.
Modern Oils Last Longer
Many older drivers remember the days when oil change services were done about every 3,000 miles. The quality of motor oils and synthetic motor oils have increased greatly over the years, so that has changed. Now, according to HowStuffWorks, oil changes at intervals of 5,000 and 7,500 miles are common for today's vehicles. Traditional motor oil generally loses its viscosity at about the 5,000-mile mark while synthetics often are good for 7,500 miles or even more. The type of oil that you use will make a difference in the optimal interval.
Oil Level and Viscosity Need to Be Regularly Checked
In our experience, you should check the engine oil level at least once a week to make sure the engine has plenty of good oil to keep it running well and out of the auto repair shop. Those frequent oil-level checks give you the chance to check the oil viscosity and whether you need to add more oil. As long as the oil looks relatively fresh and good, it'll continue to do its job by lubricating the internal parts, reducing friction, and preventing the engine from overheating.
Are you looking for an auto repair shop in the Holly Hill, FL area to help with your oil change? Our team at Honest-1 Auto Care would be happy to help! Call or visit our auto repair shop to learn more about the wide variety of auto services we offer.