One of the most essential steps you can take to improve your cars’ health, lifespan and performance is to change your car oil. But how often should you really do it? The classic rule recommends that after every 3000 miles or 3 months (whatever comes first), but is this a measurement of the past or still a golden rule to follow?
Because of advancements in the automotive industry, engines run cleaner and more efficiently, and oil is getting increasingly more effective as well, so in many cases people could be looking at over 7000 miles until it’s worthy of them updating their oil pool.
What Do the Manufacturers Think?
The most reliable source of information on how to care for your vehicle will always be the owner’s manual as it gives manufacturer-specific information, tailored to your exact model of car. Here are a few common brands and the general recommendation on how often you should change their oil:
Toyota + Honda – Often 5000 – 7500 miles
Ford + GM – Newer models suggest 7500 – 10000
BMW + Benz – Often use long-life oil and can get away with 10000 – 15000 miles
These figures are only for normal driving conditions and more regular changes are required if conditions get more severe.
What Counts as Severe Conditions?
You might be surprised to learn that many drivers qualify for driving in severe service conditions. Regular driving habits like short trips, towing loads, extreme temps and excess traffic all significantly impact the amount you should service and change your car oil.
If you and your car face these conditions regularly, it’d be smart to stick to the minimum side of any recommendations to keep your car in top spec.
Synthetic Vs Conventional Oil
The type of oil that you put in your car makes a big difference. Conventional oil is less expensive and breaks down faster. When using this, it’s recommended to change every 3-5000 miles, but it obviously fluctuates depending on the car it’s being used in.
Synthetic oil has been engineered to perform better and have longer life, it flows better in hot/cold temps and resists breakdown. When using this type of oil, you can usually get away with 7-10000 miles. Many new cars require or at least recommend synthetic oil as it offers better engine protection.
Signs You Need To Change Your Car Oil
Don’t wait until you encounter a problem to change oil, staying proactive is much more sustainable and keeps you away from all the costly repairs associated with it. Here are some obvious signs to get your oil changed and car looked at:
Illuminated oil or engine light
Knocking or grinding noises
Burning smell
Dark oil on the dipstick
Your car’s not performing to its usual standard
What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Car Oil
Putting off asking a garage to change your car oil or doing it yourself may save you a little money or time now, but future you will only be thankful for keeping your car serviced as it will save you a lot more down the line. Here’s what could happen if you repeatedly fail to change your car oil:
Serious engine wear
Sludge buildup
Overheating
Worst case: Complete engine failure
Our Recommendation
Our recommendation (different for every car but vague) is to change your car oil every 5-7000 miles for most cars using synthetic oil and 3-5000 for cars using conventional oil or in severe service conditions.
Rockstar Motors – Contact us!
If you are interested in an exceptionally maintained vehicle for an affordable price get in contact with our team today! Give us a call on: 01206 489 189 or 07736 009662.
We look forward to hearing from you!
