When Should I Change the Oil in My Vehicle?

Nov 20, 2020

Close up of oil being poured into a car engine

Why You Should Change the Oil in Your Car

Getting your oil changed is standard maintenance that benefits the health of your vehicle. However, not everyone knows when to get an oil change or why oil changes are so important. If you aren’t sure if you need an oil change, continue reading!

[ READ MORE: Best Methods to Maintain your Vehicle ]

How Often to Get an Oil Change

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The recommended time to get an oil change is every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first. Of course, this applies more to older models. Newer vehicles have been built better to go a longer time or distance before that oil change is required. This rule also applies solely to cars with conventional oil. Many vehicles now use synthetic oil, which was designed to last longer. With synthetic oil, you should get an oil change roughly every 5,000-7,000 miles or six months.

Aren’t sure when you had your last oil change? Use the dipstick to check the color of your oil. Fresh oil is an amber color and gets darker as it collects grime. If your oil looks black or is getting close to black, you need a change right away!

Also, make sure that you have enough oil circulating. Check how much oil you have by wiping your dipstick, inserting it again, and pulling it out. Wherever the oil ends on the dipstick is how much you have left. If you are low but don’t need a change yet, be sure to add some oil to last you until your oil change.

Why Oil Changes are Important

Some drivers may not realize the importance of getting an oil change and let their vehicle go for long period of time or distances without one. The purpose of oil is to circulate around the engine to absorb heat and lubricate the moving parts. With bad oil, your engine will overheat, and parts can grind. This can lead to major engine damage. Overall, if you want your car to last a long time, be sure to change your oil!

For more tips and tricks like this, follow the OkCarz blog! If you are shopping for a used vehicle, be sure to contact us and we will be happy to help you.