There’s no one simple answer to the question – how often should you change the oil and oil filter in your vehicle. If you’re wondering when you should change your oil, our experts would be happy to review all the variables to give you an answer based on your specific car and driving habits. Changing your oil on a set schedule will help your vehicle run smoothly and extend the life of the engine. We’d love to help you get back on track with regular oil changes.
How Often Should You Change the Oil and Oil Filter in Your Vehicle?
At one time, the rule was simply to change your oil every 3,000 miles or approximately every 3 months. However, this guideline is outdated with today’s modern vehicles and oils. While some cars still need an oil change every 3,000 miles, others do not. Simply put, the best way to know when to change your oil is to check your vehicle’s owner manual as well as the recommendation for the oil currently in your car. While other factors can also play a role, the type of vehicle and type of oil will give you the best indication about whether it is time for an oil change.
With today’s vehicles and oil, many drivers can go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between oil and oil filter changes. That said, even if you use top quality oil, you may need an oil change sooner if you drive an older vehicle, drive a vehicle with high mileage, drive on dirty/dusty roads, or do heavy towing with your vehicle. It’s always best to ask for an expert opinion if you’re not sure.
In most cases, you should change your oil filter every time you change your oil. A dirty filter can cause clogs, even with brand new oil. Some brands recommend changing the filter every other oil change instead. Again, this is where our certified mechanics can help. We’ll take a look at your filter and only recommend changing it if it is necessary.
Types of Oil
The type of oil you use plays a huge role in answering the question, “How often should you change the oil and oil filter in your vehicle?” There are three main options:
- Conventional Oil
- Synthetic Oil
- Synthetic Blends
Conventional oil is the least expensive, but also the least effective. When you use this type of oil, you’ll need to change your oil more often. You’ll need a synthetic oil change less often. This kind of oil is more highly refined, and thus it is not only better for your engine but it will also last longer. As the name implies, synthetic blends are a blend of conventional and synthetic oil. It’s a good “goldilocks” option if you are on a budget.
You can read more about the different types of oils here. At Kernersville Auto Center, we use high-quality Havoline oil for conventional, synthetic, and synthetic blend oil changes. We stand fully behind this brand, even using it in our own vehicles.
Why Changing Your Oil Matters
Don’t wait for the dashboard oil or check engine light to come on. Make your oil change appointment at the appropriate time, sticking to your maintenance schedule. It might be tempting to put off this task. After all, your car’s still running, right? However, if you put off your oil change too long, it won’t be.
Oil is an important part of your engine. Without it, the moving parts won’t slide with ease. This creates friction, which in turn creates heat. Heat is the enemy of an engine. Without clean oil, it’s very easy for an engine to overheat and then stop running completely. A small oil change bill can quickly become a huge bill to replace an engine if you put off maintenance.
FAQs About Changing Your Oil and Filter
We’re happy to answer any of your oil change questions. Here are a few common ones we’ve heard from our customers:
Is it okay to change the oil but not the filter?
While you can do this, it’s not something we recommend in most cases. At the very least, you should change your oil filter every other time you get an oil change. However, for most drivers, we recommend changing the filter every time.
How long can oil last if you don’t drive much?
Oil and your oil filter will degrade over time, even if you’re not driving. You should bring your vehicle in for an oil change at least once a year. Even if you haven’t hit the minimum mileage yet, this prevents issues that arise from old oil.
Can my car take synthetic oil?
All vehicles can use synthetic oil. It’s essentially the same thing as conventional oil, just more highly refined. You don’t have to make changes to your engine to use synthetic oil, and you can always switch back to conventional oil at your next oil change if you want to.
How can I tell if I have an oil leak?
Not every oil leak looks like oil gushing from your vehicle. In some cases, you might have a slow leak where the oil drops out over time. If the dashboard oil light or check engine light pops on, bring your vehicle into our shop. Our mechanics can check the entire system for leaks. We do this automatically at our shop every time you get an oil change. If you think you have an oil leak, click here to schedule an appointment immediately.
