How often should you get an oil change? It’s a question that not many people know the answer to, and with that, an answer that isn’t always definitive. The answer varies depending upon who you ask. Part of the reason for this is because there is no exact science behind mileage per oil change, there are only estimations and recommendations. Some people will say that changing your oil frequently allows for your car to run more efficiently and also prevents potential damage (and expensive repairs.) Other people say the opposite, that changing your oil frequently is unnecessary and can be more expensive in the long run. So how does one figure out if an oil change is right for them at the moment/in the near future?
2. The first part of knowing whether or not you should get an oil change is
knowing your car. What type of car is it, how many miles you’ve racked up on
it, and how many miles per gallon are all questions you need to answer
before considering an oil change.
3. Another important factor
in your decision is the
consideration of the type
of climate your car drives
in (or will drive in). Certain
oils are appropriate for
certain types of climates.
That’s not to say that you
should get an oil change
with every changing
season. However, if you
find that the type of oil
your car runs on is not
appropriate for the
general climate you’re
driving in, it might be time
to consider an oil change.
4. Most mechanics
recommend an oil
change for every 3000
miles as a standard.
This is because the
average American is
more likely to be
exposed to weather
conditions of less than
freezing and higher
than ninety degrees in
any given year. Coupled
with driving habits that
are affected by traffic
patterns such as idling
and stop-and-go, an oil
change becomes ever
more imminent.
5. Most car manufactures recommend an oil
change for every 4,500 to 7,500 miles as a
standard. Typically, this is when a regular car
with regular variables needs an oil change.
6. In short, the question of how often should you
get an oil change is answered with the
consideration of a few factors. Every car and
every scenario is unique.
Once you have a good knowledge base about
your car and the factors affecting it, you will no
doubt be able to determine if you should get
an oil change.