How Many Miles Between Oil Changes?

When to Change Your Oil

The frequency with which you’ll need an oil change will vary depending on a variety of factors, including:

• What vehicle you drive
• How often and where you drive
• What type of oil your engine uses

So, when wondering how often you need an oil change, it’s wise to consult the owner’s manual for your vehicle. However, generally, vehicles need to have their oil changed around every 7,500 miles.

You can also keep an eye out for the oil change light on your dashboard if you aren’t sure when your vehicle is due for one. This will monitor many aspects of your drive and vehicle performance to estimate when the oil will need to be changed.

Why Are Oil Changes Important?

Letting it go too far beyond when your vehicle needs an oil change can have some serious side effects for your engine. The oil is essential because it keeps all the moving parts lubricated and prevents overheating. 

Over time, the oil will develop a sludgy consistency, which will make it harder for it to do its job. This consistency can start to hinder the engine’s performance.

At first, you’ll likely notice that your vehicle is burning fuel more quickly. You’ll have to stop and refill more often than usual. Eventually, this can cause internal damages to the engine, which will mean some serious repairs later down the road.

What Type of Oil Should I Use?

When it comes to the type of oil, you should consult the owner’s manual. There are many different types of oil available and using the wrong kind for your engine can be a real issue.

Oil is available in several different types, including synthetic and conventional. These oils each have unique pros and cons for your engine. Beyond that, oil is also categorized by grade, which denotes viscosity. The grade is especially important, as an oil that is too thin or too thick for your engine can hinder its performance.

When getting an oil change, it’s best to use the oil recommended in the manual. If you aren’t sure what kind your engine takes, you can also talk to technicians at a service center, as they should be able to point you in the right direction.