Older advice for doing oil changes on vehicles involved every three months or 3000 miles. Today, newer vehicles have more efficient engines, so the average advice is about 5,000 to 10,000 miles. If you read your car's user manual, some brand new cars may even suggest up to 20,000 miles! Some of this is due to better oils on the market and better vehicles. Today's oils can be fully synthetic, or a synthetic blend that lasts longer before its viscosity breaks down.
Every 5,000 Miles & Up to 10,000 Miles
Many car makers recommend that you change the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. However, there can be other factors at work too. This can include how old the engine is inside your vehicle, the make and model of it, your driving habits, and even the road surfaces you drive on. For the Ford Motor Company, they say newer models of cars are fine until the 7,500 miles mark, while their Ford cars earlier than 2007 should have their oil changed more frequently.
Driving Conditions
If you're driving through dusty offtrack roads in Austin, TX you may need to change your oil more often. Likewise, if you're carrying heavier loads in your vehicle for your business, work, or camping. If you tow trailers or boats, your oil needs to be changed more often. If you do excessive idling or drive at slower speeds than you may need more frequent oil changes. If you get stuck on Austin's busy highways frequently, this can shorten your oil's lifespan too.
Other Purposes for Oil Changes
If your oil is changed on a regular basis it can also allow your auto technician or mechanic do a quick inspection for other issues in your vehicle. Some places, such as Austin's Automotive Specialists in Austin, TX can book you in for an oil change and routine maintenance that can save you time and money from having to come in for separate visits.
If you're not currently tracking your mileage, start now. Check and see what your car's user manual says about recommended oil changes for mileage, then give us a call at Austin's Automotive Specialists in Austin, TX to book an appointment.