One of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to car maintenance is: “How often should I change my oil?” While the classic rule of thumb is to change your oil every 3,000 miles or three months, the incredible progress in oil technology and engine design has outdated this recommendation.
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.
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.
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.
While oil type and manufacturer recommendations are fundamental, your driving habits will significantly impact how often you should change your oil. Let us explain:
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.
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.
Wright's Car Care offers the most reliable import and domestic auto repair services. Read our blog posts to learn more about your vehicle.
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