Oil Change Intervals: What’s the Truth?
How often should you have an oil change service on your car or truck? Depending on whom you ask, you may get a different answer. Some car manufacturers and oil change experts are now saying that the tradition of an oil change every 3,000 miles are no longer the absolute "rule of thumb."
With the advancement in engine technology and chemistry of oil in recent years, the oil change interval for many vehicles has been extended. One thing that is still the rule, however, is that the recommended interval for oil changes as stated in your owner's manual overrides other opinions and advice. That interval could be anywhere between 5,000 and 15,000 miles, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. So, take time to read your owner's manual! Of course, if the "oil change" light comes on your dashboard, it's time to schedule that oil change service.
Should you have an oil change service performed right before a road trip?
Many drivers believe that is a necessity before any trip. This raises the question—is it really necessary? These two simple questions will give you the answer:
- BEFORE - Take care of the oil change before starting out if your vehicle will reach the mileage or time interval during your trip. Don't risk a problem in a strange town or on a long stretch of road with no help in sight. Another benefit is that during an oil change service, you can have all the systems of your vehicle inspected to make sure there are no other pending car problems.
- AFTER – You can wait until you return if the time for a service won't occur until after your trip. Don't forget to add the miles you will be driving while on your trip. Of course, you will want to be confident that all the other systems of your vehicle are functioning properly too.
Be Smart: Plan that needed an oil change or another maintenance service at least a week or two before your departure date. Give yourself time to notice any little mishaps that may need attention.
For premium oil changes, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
How often should you have an oil change service on your car or truck? Depending on whom you ask, you may get a different answer. Some car manufacturers and oil change experts are now saying that the tradition of an oil change every 3,000 miles are no longer the absolute "rule of thumb."
With the advancement in engine technology and chemistry of oil in recent years, the oil change interval for many vehicles has been extended. One thing that is still the rule, however, is that the recommended interval for oil changes as stated in your owner's manual overrides other opinions and advice. That interval could be anywhere between 5,000 and 15,000 miles, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. So, take time to read your owner's manual! Of course, if the "oil change" light comes on your dashboard, it's time to schedule that oil change service.
Should you have an oil change service performed right before a road trip?
Many drivers believe that is a necessity before any trip. This raises the question—is it really necessary? These two simple questions will give you the answer:
- BEFORE - Take care of the oil change before starting out if your vehicle will reach the mileage or time interval during your trip. Don't risk a problem in a strange town or on a long stretch of road with no help in sight. Another benefit is that during an oil change service, you can have all the systems of your vehicle inspected to make sure there are no other pending car problems.
- AFTER – You can wait until you return if the time for a service won't occur until after your trip. Don't forget to add the miles you will be driving while on your trip. Of course, you will want to be confident that all the other systems of your vehicle are functioning properly too.
Be Smart: Plan that needed an oil change or another maintenance service at least a week or two before your departure date. Give yourself time to notice any little mishaps that may need attention.
For premium oil changes, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
