How Long Can a Car Go Between Oil Changes?

How often you need to change your oil depends on several factors such as the type of oil your vehicle uses, your driving habits, and the condition of your car's engine. We dive a little deeper in this article brough to you by trusted auto repair shop, Wrights Car Care.

Exploring the evolution of motor oils

Motor oils have come a long way. Conventional oil was the standard decades ago, but modern synthetic and semi-synthetic oils have changed the game.

Synthetic oils are engineered to provide better lubrication and withstand extreme temperatures for longer periods. Because of their superior quality, many synthetic oils allow for longer intervals of up to 10,000 or more miles between oil changes!

Semi-synthetic oils blend conventional and synthetic oils, and they offer a middle ground. They don’t last as long as full synthetic oils but can often extend your oil change interval to 5,000-7,500 miles.

Trust your manufacturer recommendations

One of the best sources of information for how long your car can go between oil changes is your vehicle's owner manual. Manufacturers design engines and conduct extensive tests to determine the optimal oil change interval for each specific model.

Driving Habits: The human element

While oil type and manufacturer recommendations are fundamental, your driving habits will significantly impact how often you should change your oil. Let us explain:

• Stop-and-Go Traffic: Believe it or not, the engine works harder if you're often stuck in traffic or live in an urban area with lots of stop-and-go driving. In these conditions you’ll want to consider more frequent oil changes.
• Frequent Short Trips: Your engine may not get hot enough to burn off moisture and other contaminants if your daily commute consists of short trips (less than 10 miles). This can cause your oil to break down faster, meaning you’ll need to change it as frequently as every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
• Harsh Conditions: Whether it’s the desert heat or pulling a trailer uphill, extreme conditions can accelerate oil degradation. Stick to the 5,000-mile mark in these cases, even if synthetic oil is used.

We get old, and so do engines

Older engines with higher mileage may consume or burn oil faster than newer ones, and this necessitates more frequent oil changes. If your car is older than 10 years or has over 100,000 miles, consider sticking to shorter oil change intervals of around 3,000-5,000 miles regardless of the type of oil you’re using.

Stick to Fundamentals: Check your oil

If we’ve got to get down and dirty, our number one tip is to check the oil level and color regularly. If the oil appears dark and dirty or has dropped below the recommended level, it’s time for a change regardless of how many miles you've driven.

It’s probably time to call a mechanic if you start noticing oil smell inside the car, excessive exhaust smoke, or engine noise and knocking.

Don’t wait until you’re forced to come in for an auto repair service in Buckhead, GA. Play it safe and change your oil regularly. Residents in the area are welcome to Wrights Car Care for premium car care. Our team is on standby to schedule a convenient appointment today.