One of the most common maintenance items for a car is an oil change. But how often should this be done? It really depends on the make of your vehicle, driving habits, and type of oil used. Here are a few general guidelines to follow.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
Most carmakers recommend an oil change between 3,000 and 5,000 miles, although this varies depending on the type of engine oil, the age and make of your vehicle, and your driving habits. If you fall into any of the following categories, you should have your oil changed more frequently.
- You frequently drive in stopandgo traffic or in extreme heat or cold.
- You use your car for short trips of less than 5 miles.
- You tow a trailer or carry heavy loads.
- You drive a highperformance vehicle
What Type of Oil Should I Use?
There are three main types of motor oils: conventional, synthetic, and synthetic blend. Conventional oil is refined from crude oil and is the most common type of motor oil used. Synthetic oil is manmade and designed to withstand extreme temperatures. Synthetic blend oil is a combination of both conventional and synthetic oils.
If you’re not sure which type of oil to use, consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask your mechanic. Using the wrong type of motor oil can cause decreased performance and engine damage.
An essential part of car ownership is getting regular oil changes. How often you need to change your oil will depend on the make of your vehicle, driving habits, and type of oil used. Keep these things in mind the next time you take your car in for an oil change!
