There is still a lot of debate going on in the automotive industry today on how often should you change your oil. If you’re confused, the best place to look is your owner’s manual. This little book will give you guidelines on how often you should change the oil as well as what type of oil to use. Depending on the age and make of your vehicle is often a determining factor.
There may be two different schedules listed in your manual — normal and severe. Essentially, very few drivers may fall under the normal category. Severe driving conditions include stop-and-go driving, idling in traffic, towing a trailer, driving in extreme warmth or cold, or frequent short-distance driving in which the engine cannot reach full operating temperature. In this case, most vehicle manufacturers recommend changing the oil more frequently than usual.
With that said above, it may still be confusing as to how often should you change your oil. Most vehicles these days can now go to every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (instead of the old standard of every 3,000 miles) before needing an oil change, or every 6 months, whichever comes first.
It’s important that drivers understand that changing the oil is the best preventative maintenance for extending the life of your engine. With repeated exposure to cold starts, short trips, and engine warmth, oil gets dirty, becomes thicker, and loses its ability to prevent sludge and deposits from forming. Clean fresh oil can efficiently lubricate and clean the moving parts of the engine as well as cooling as it circulates.
The cost of an oil change service is minimal compared to the cost of engine repair for engine damage caused by neglecting regular oil changes. Many auto shops offer oil change coupons as a service to their customers. The advantage of more frequent oil changes is that it gives your auto mechanic a chance to check your car for other problems or needed routine maintenance.
Are you wondering where to get oil change coupons? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Auto & Fleet Mechanic for more information about how often should you change your oil and make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Modesto, CA, and the surrounding area.
