Confused about how often your oil really should get changed? You’re not alone. A lot of drivers run into the same problem, and it’s no wonder. There are a lot of different factors that are in play when it comes to answering this question. Keeping your car in good running order means that you do need to make sure you’re getting your oil changed as often as you really should. We here at Midwest Auto Care can help.
Check Your Owner’s Manual
The very best way to answer this question is to reference your owner’s manual. Your car’s manufacturer has all sorts of guidelines for how often and what types of oil are best for your car. Following these recommendations to the letter is going to be the best option for your car.
Synthetic or Conventional?
The type of oil you’re using makes a big difference. Conventional motor oil lasts about 3,000 miles, typically. Synthetic motor oil can double and sometimes triple that mileage, depending on the oil. Your car’s owner’s manual may have more to say about this, too.
Your Commute Makes a Difference
Do you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, or are you driving a lot of highway miles on a typical basis? Stop-and-go driving is harder on your car’s engine, and therefore, on your car’s engine oil than highway driving is. This factors in to whether you’re in need of more frequent oil changes.
So Do Your Driving Habits
There’s your commute itself, and then there’s how you drive. If you’ve got a bit of a lead foot and you’re a heavy accelerator when you take off, that’s putting stress on your engine. Your car’s oil is working harder to keep that engine safe and cool through this, so it’s going to need more frequent changes.
Older, Higher Mileage Cars Need More Frequent Oil Changes
Finally, your car’s age and overall mileage matter, too. If your car is older, it’s going to benefit from having oil changes more frequently. Likewise, the higher mileage means more wear and tear, too. Getting the oil changed more often does that little bit extra to help protect the engine from added injury.
There’s a perfect schedule for your car, your driving, and your needs. Contact us at Midwest Auto Care in Lake Station, IN, and we’ll help you to figure out what that schedule is. We’ll get you in and out for an oil change and get you back on the road fast.
