To change your oil or not to change your oil; that is the question. You’ve had it drilled into your head for years that you must, absolutely must, change your vehicle’s oil every 3,000 miles, so why do you hear that this isn’t the case anymore? And, can you trust that going beyond that 3,000-mile or 90-day threshold is safe? Many say it is.
The Truth and Nothing But the Truth
Automobile manufacturers rarely unite over anything, but they do agree that you do not have to have your car, SUV, or truck’s oil changed every 3,000 miles, so why do quick lube shops insist that you do? The answer is simple: money. It makes perfect sense if you think about it. These chains are in the oil changing business only, and the more often they can bring you into their facility, the more money they make. Does this make them dishonest? No. It’s basic capitalism.
If Not Every 3,000 Miles, How Often?
The best way to determine how often you should change your vehicle’s oil is by checking its owner’s manual. The owner’s manual will tell you how often you should change the oil and the best oil to use, and the required quantity. Today, rather than recommending a lube, oil, and filter every 3,000 miles, most automobile manufacturers say you can wait every 7,500 miles for the service. This is nice not only in terms of convenience but also for your pocketbook.
However, check with the manufacturer because some say you can wait for 10,000 miles before an oil change. Depending on your car’s year, make, and model, Ford, Porsche, Toyota, and Volkswagen have all given the green light to 10,000-mile oil changes. If you drive a BMW and use synthetic oil, the luxury automobile manufacturer recommends oil changes every 15,000 miles, so do your homework and find out what’s best for your vehicle’s engine.
The Consequences of Ignoring Oil Changes
Don’t put it off no matter the duration, though. If you fail to change your oil at the recommended intervals, it becomes dirty and can damage your engine. Remember, the oil lubricates crucial engine components, and if they rub together and cause unwanted or overheated friction, they will fail eventually. Find a trusted auto mechanic such as Heath’s Auto Service in Flagstaff, AZ, and have your engine oil changed regularly. This keeps it purring like a kitten for years to come.
