When should you have your oil changed? We all know (or at least most of us) that dirty oil isn’t as good as fresh oil. So, the changing-your-oil impulse comes naturally knowing that new oil will not only save money, but will also take care of your car’s engine in the long run. In fact, by changing your oil at the right frequency, you may get twice the mileage out of an otherwise good engine.
So what is the right oil changing timing or interval? What is a reasonable amount of time or mileage? Here we find out:
In the past, the right timing for oil changing was really simple – every three months or 3,000 miles. However, these days, with the improvements made to engine oil as well as the cars themselves, you might need to determine an oil changing interval that is unique to your car. Your best guide will be the owner’s manual.
You can be flexible with this though. Vehicles that use conventional motor oil should have their oil changed between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. Those who use synthetic motor oil can go up to 7,000 miles. Some manufacturers suggest that oil be changed every 7,500 miles or more, but again, that’s based on optimum operating conditions.
If you’re a freeway driver who goes on a lot of long journeys at high speeds, you can probably extend the oil change interval. However, if you live in an area with extreme climates or an area with frequent heavy traffic, you may want to increase your oil changes.
Remember that regular oil changes are critical in ensuring your car’s engine runs properly and will have a long life. Also remember to never go further than the manufacturer’s recommended maximum interval. If all goes well, you’ll end up saving more in the long run.
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