How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Taking care of your vehicle is important, especially when it comes to oil changes. Think of motor oil as the lifeblood that keeps your car’s engine running smoothly. At Buckeye Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT Superstore, we want to provide you with the information you need to understand your oil change frequency. If you’ve ever asked about how often you should change your oil, you’ve come to the right place. 

How Often Should You Change Your Oil Based On Your Vehicle Age? 

How often should you change your oil? For most Mansfield drivers, the general rule is to get an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual or the oil life monitoring system (OLMS) in your car for specific recommendations. Don’t go more than one year without an oil change, regardless of how much or little you drive. Older vehicles may need more frequent oil changes, around every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, as they have different advanced engine parts than newer models.

The truth is, most newer vehicles go extended periods because of the type of oil they use – rarely does it have anything to do with the age or model of the vehicle. Currently, more manufacturers are recommending synthetic oil instead of standard – for a good reason. However, they both have their pros and cons. 

Why Choose Synthetic Motor Oil? 

Why choose synthetic oil? Consider using synthetic oil for your oil changes, even though it’s a bit more expensive upfront. Synthetic oil is specially formulated to match your vehicle’s engine, providing better protection and longer-lasting performance. Most new vehicles actually require synthetic oil. By opting for synthetic oil changes, you’ll have fewer oil changes overall, saving you money in the long run. Generally, most synthetics only require an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. 

Why Use Standard Oil? 

Standard oil, while still perfectly suitable for most current model vehicles, isn’t as efficient at keeping our engine cool and preventing viscosity – especially at extreme temperatures. The hotter your engine oil gets, the more buildup the oil leaves behind, making it difficult for your engine to run smoothly over a longer period. However, if you’re mindful regarding the length of standard oil changes (usually 3,000 to 4,000 miles) and keep your vehicle well-maintained, you can still get away with standard if you’d rather save the money. 

When to Check Your Oil? 

When should you check your oil level? Make it a habit to check your oil level at least once a month. It’s a simple process: just lift the hood of your car, locate the dipstick (usually with a yellow or orange handle), and check the oil’s color and level. Clean, amber-colored oil is ideal, while dark brown and thin oil may indicate the need for a change. If you notice you’re low on oil or need any auto service, schedule an appointment with us at Buckeye Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT Superstore.

Let Buckeye Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT Superstore Handle Your Routine Maintenance

Now that you have a better understanding of oil changes near Bucyrus, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Buckeye Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT Superstore for an oil change in Shelby. Our expert service team can take care of all your automotive needs, from tires and brakes to batteries and radiators. Check out our service specials to save money on regular car maintenance and keep your vehicle running smoothly.