How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

One of the best ways to prepare for summer driving is by changing your car’s oil. How often should you change your oil? Many automotive experts recommend changing your oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. For older vehicles, the recommendation was closer to 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but modern advancements in automotive technology have allowed many new vehicles to go much further between oil changes.

The service team at Pine Belt Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has everything you need to know about how often to change your oil and other helpful tips. Take a look at our guide, and schedule your next oil change at our dealership!

What Determines How Often You Should Change Your Oil?

While the general recommendation for changing your oil is anywhere from 7,500 to 10,000 miles, the specific number will vary depending on what kind of vehicle you drive. Another factor that affects how often you’ll need to change your oil is your driving habits.

If you do any of the following kinds of driving, you’ll find yourself changing your oil more often:

• Off-road driving
• Commercial/business driving
• High-speed racing
• Heavy-duty towing

As you drive through the mountains this summer and explore more trails off the beaten path, it’s important to keep an eye on your oil levels and stay on top of your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

Your engine oil keeps your engine moving efficiently by lubricating its components and reducing friction. Your engine oil also keeps your engine clean by filtering out dirt and debris that can get inside. Over time, your oil becomes clogged with too much debris and becomes dirty, lowering its efficiency. That’s why it’s crucial to stay on top of regular oil changes.

Not changing your oil can lead to the following:

• Check engine can turn on
• Knocking sounds from the engine
• Dark and dirty oil
• Smoke from the exhaust pipe
• Overheating engine

All of these can lead to poor performance and can even cause your vehicle to be unsafe to drive. To make sure your vehicle is up for your summer travels, be sure to get your oil changed as soon as possible.

Other Helpful Oil Change Advice

Hopefully, you have a better idea of how often you should be changing your oil. But, it’s never a bad thing to have too much information.

Here are some additional tips and advice relating to oil changes we think every driver should know:

• Check your oil level once a month to make sure you’re changing your oil when you need to.
• Change your oil at least two times a year. Even if you don’t drive your car around that much, the oil inside will still break down, and it needs to be changed.
• Have your oil filter changed when you have your oil changed. You can have our service team handle the oil filter replacement, or you can order a new oil filter from our parts store if you prefer to do it yourself.
• Make sure you know what kind of oil your vehicle needs. If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual.

Schedule an Oil Change at Pine Belt Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Get ready for summer by scheduling an oil change at our dealership. Contact us to schedule a time to get your oil changed, and don’t forget to ask us about our service specials!