By Gary Hindenes | Owner of Gary’s Automotive Repair in Chandler
Regular oil changes are one of the easiest ways you can help extend the lifespan of your car and keep it running smoothly. Oil lubricates the internal components of the engine, captures debris and reduces heat. With modern engines and modern oils, it can be confusing knowing when to change your oil. Here is what you must consider when it comes to changing your oil.
Consult your owner’s manual
When understanding how often you should change your oil the first thing you want to consult is your vehicle’s owner manual. This will give you the manufacturer’s recommendations. Car manufacturers design their oil change intervals based on oil type, driving conditions and the type of engine your car has in it.
Cars often vary on oil change intervals. Some require you to change the oil every 3,000 miles. Newer models using synthetic oil may allow you to go up to 7,500 miles before an oil change.
Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will be quite beneficial especially when you first purchase the vehicle. As you come to understand your car more you will have a better idea of when you should be getting your oil changed. If you have lost your manual, you can always go to the manufacturer website for easy access to an online version.
Pay attention to driving habits
How you drive your vehicle can greatly impact how often you must change your oil. If you live in a city and do a lot of stop and go driving, are consistently taking short trips or live somewhere, like Phoenix with extreme temperatures, your oil will age more quickly. These conditions cause your engine to work harder and puts more strain on the oil. If any of these situation’s sound like how you drive or where you live, then it is best to err on the side of caution and change your oil more frequently than is suggested even if you use full synthetic oil.
Watch for warning signs
In addition to the number of miles, your car may give you signs it needs an oil change. If you experience a burning smell inside your car, unusual noises coming from your engine or if your oil light comes on you must get your oil checked and changed as soon as possible. Many modern vehicles have oil monitoring systems that calculate when you need a new oil change based on driving data collected in the car’s computer. These can be quite accurate and beneficial if followed properly. The best thing to do is always check your oil every 90 days. If you check your oil and it is dark and dirty, or sludgy then you need to have your oil changed.
Routine oil changes help protect your vehicle’s engine and help it perform at its best. While mileage guidelines are helpful for knowing when you should change your oil, your driving habits and type of vehicle are equally as important. Always consult your owner’s manual first, pay attention to how and where you are driving your vehicle, and never ignore any signs your car gives you that may indicate you need to change your oil. A timely oil change can save you from damaging your engine and costly repairs down the road.
