What’s the Truth about Oil Changes?
There are varied opinions about the frequency of vehicle oil changes. Whose advice is correct? Is it different for each particular vehicle? Oil change intervals rely on a number of different factors that determine when one should get their vehicle’s oil changed. Knowing which factors affect the cleanliness of your oil can help you make an informed choice as to when an oil change is needed.
Where do I start?
Look at your owner’s manual. It will probably supply a number between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. The manufacturer actually built the car, and as such should be viewed as the most reliable source. However, manufacturer recommendations are based on ideal driving conditions – driving short distances, never over the speed limit--something the typical driver would be hard-pressed to accomplish. Your vehicle would be better off using the “severe conditions” maintenance schedule, which recommends oil changes roughly every 3,000 miles.
What affects Oil Change Intervals?
So, once you’ve discovered the carmaker’s estimated mileage interval, there are a few issues that need to be reviewed to adjust that estimate. Hard driving is a major wear and tear factor in determining the mileage interval. If you’re driving a lot in extreme conditions (both hot and cold), stop-and-go traffic, towing a trailer, or hanging out on dusty roads, it is highly recommended that you have a service more frequently. With easy or slow driving, or if you’re not driving very much at all, you’ll be able to get away with longer intervals. In an older vehicle, oil changes should be at increasingly more frequent intervals. This is due to “blowby”: compressed fuel and air that has leaked into the engine’s crankcase. Over time, soot and grime build up on the rings, making them slightly permeable and resulting in contaminated oil that needs to be changed more regularly.
Tips to remember for maximum fuel efficiency and a smoother-running vehicle:
- Use a high-quality filter to keep the oil cleaner longer
- Use high-quality oil. Synthetic is recommended for longer engine life and better performance.
- Schedule a service every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, and adjust as necessary according to your actual driving conditions.
If you’re looking for quality oil changes, we can help you keep your car on the road. Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians by calling (608) 221-8321 or go online at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and surrounding communities.
There are varied opinions about the frequency of vehicle oil changes. Whose advice is correct? Is it different for each particular vehicle? Oil change intervals rely on a number of different factors that determine when one should get their vehicle’s oil changed. Knowing which factors affect the cleanliness of your oil can help you make an informed choice as to when an oil change is needed.
Where do I start?
Look at your owner’s manual. It will probably supply a number between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. The manufacturer actually built the car, and as such should be viewed as the most reliable source. However, manufacturer recommendations are based on ideal driving conditions – driving short distances, never over the speed limit--something the typical driver would be hard-pressed to accomplish. Your vehicle would be better off using the “severe conditions” maintenance schedule, which recommends oil changes roughly every 3,000 miles.
What affects Oil Change Intervals?
So, once you’ve discovered the carmaker’s estimated mileage interval, there are a few issues that need to be reviewed to adjust that estimate. Hard driving is a major wear and tear factor in determining the mileage interval. If you’re driving a lot in extreme conditions (both hot and cold), stop-and-go traffic, towing a trailer, or hanging out on dusty roads, it is highly recommended that you have a service more frequently. With easy or slow driving, or if you’re not driving very much at all, you’ll be able to get away with longer intervals. In an older vehicle, oil changes should be at increasingly more frequent intervals. This is due to “blowby”: compressed fuel and air that has leaked into the engine’s crankcase. Over time, soot and grime build up on the rings, making them slightly permeable and resulting in contaminated oil that needs to be changed more regularly.
Tips to remember for maximum fuel efficiency and a smoother-running vehicle:
- Use a high-quality filter to keep the oil cleaner longer
- Use high-quality oil. Synthetic is recommended for longer engine life and better performance.
- Schedule a service every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, and adjust as necessary according to your actual driving conditions.
If you’re looking for quality oil changes, we can help you keep your car on the road. Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians by calling (608) 221-8321 or go online at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and surrounding communities.
