OIL CHANGE 101: WHEN TO CHANGE YOUR OIL & 8 TIPS TO EXTEND OIL LIFE
Your engine oil is vital to keeping your vehicle in top shape. While you must ensure that your oil is well maintained, the timing for getting an oil change may vary. Keep reading to learn how to safely extend oil change intervals without compromising your engine’s health and lifespan.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR OIL?
When is it time for an oil change? The answer is different for everyone. It depends on your car's age, the type of oil you use, and how you drive. Here’s how to figure out what's best for your ride.
Older Car
Driving a classic from before the year 2000? You'll want to change the oil every 3,000 miles or every three months—whichever comes first. Older vehicles usually rely on conventional oil and don't have the fancy engine technology of newer vehicles that boosts fuel efficiency and extends oil life. Regular oil changes are vital to prevent sludge buildup and keep that engine humming along.
Newer Car
If you have a new vehicle, you're in luck! Modern cars have advanced engines and better oil formulations, meaning longer stretches between oil changes. Many manufacturers suggest changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, and you could even go up to 10,000 miles with synthetic oil. Just make sure to check your owner's manual for your vehicle's recommended oil change interval.
Conventional Oil
If you're using conventional oil—the old-school stuff—remember that it doesn't last as long as synthetic. Typically, you'll need to change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. And if you're often stuck in stop-and-go traffic, deal with extreme temperatures, or drive in dusty areas, you might need to swap it out even sooner.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is an artificial lubricant engineered from chemically modified petroleum components, with distilled crude oil as its base. Thanks to advanced chemical processes, it outperforms conventional oil, resisting breakdown and handling higher temperatures more efficiently.
So, how long between oil changes with synthetic oil? You can usually stretch your oil change interval to 7,500 or even 10,000 miles. However, you should still check your owner's manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Scheduling a Regular Oil Change Service
Staying on top of regular oil changes is key to keeping your vehicle healthy and running longer. It'll keep your engine clean, improve gas mileage, and even cut down on emissions. Sure, you can get your oil changed at many places, but if you want quick and reliable service, drive into Take 5 Oil—no appointment needed. We'll have you back on the road in just 10 minutes. Find a Take 5 Oil Change near you and keep your car cruising smoothly.
WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER EXTENDING YOUR ENGINE'S OIL LIFE
If you’re interested in aiding the environment, you might like the idea of extending your engine’s oil life. Extended oil change intervals mean you’re changing your oil less often and, by extension, reducing your carbon emissions by conserving oil.
Plus, stretching out your oil change intervals and extending your oil life helps you save money by reducing the frequency. And who doesn’t love saving money?
HOW DO YOU EXTEND THE LIFE OF OIL?
Simply put, you can extend the life of your oil by adhering to your maintenance schedule, reviewing your owner’s manual, and caring for your engine. We’ve also put together eight tips and tricks for extending oil life and oil change intervals.
1. Trust Your Owner’s Manual
The number one expert on what your engine needs to perform at its best is your owner’s manual. Know your car’s recommendations for both the type of oil and oil change interval before you take it in for an oil change.
Your owner’s manual will also explain how your car’s internal oil monitoring system works. This system helps gauge your oil life and quality based on your driving habits. It will also tell you what the indicators mean and what oil life percentage your oil should be changed.
2. Know Your Driving Habits and Conditions
Understanding how and when you drive your car determines how long your oil will remain in good condition. Your driving habits also answer the age-old debate of oil change time versus mileage.
Hot climates and short commutes need more frequent oil changes than cars running highway miles in more temperate climates. Either way, if you reach the outer limit of the recommended time, your oil has reached the end of its life and needs to be changed.
3. Respect Your Vehicle’s Engine
If you want your oil to last its proper lifespan and fully protect your engine, it’s essential to treat it with care. Off-roading, sudden accelerations and stops, and long periods of idling may be part of your lifestyle. If so, your oil will break down much faster.
4. Consider a Secondary Bypass Filter
A filter that meets or exceeds standard filtration recommendations can go a long way toward keeping your oil free from contaminants that damage your engine. But for some vehicles, that’s not enough.
Adding a bypass filter can be a real game-changer for hard-working engines. The slow transfer rate through secondary, high microfiltration systems can remove substantially more residue. Keeping these impurities from recirculating in your engine provides added protection. It can increase the miles allotted before an oil change is required.
5. Know When and How to Use Additives
Adding chemicals or cleaners to your oil isn’t always necessary or advisable. Fresh motor oil has an optimal chemical formulation for your engine type. Additional products can disrupt the quality of the new oil.
If you want to use additives to extend oil change intervals, having your oil tested first is highly recommended. Testing can tell you precisely what additives will help you get the most out of your current oil.
6. Consider Installing an Aftermarket Oil Quality Sensor
If your car lacks an internal oil monitoring system, you might ask your mechanic about installing a sensor. A sensor can help alert you to changes in your oil’s condition and life expectancy in time to adjust your oil change schedule.
7. Don’t Ignore Your Other Fluids and Filters
Don’t forget to check your coolant levels and air filters. If air can't move freely, or if you don’t have enough coolant, it causes your engine to heat up faster and stay hotter longer. Engine oil breaks down more quickly in these conditions.
8. Stick to a Maintenance Schedule
Once you understand what your car’s engine needs, stick to it. Checking your engine oil and other fluids once a month can go a long way toward catching a problem early. Monitor your oil level and appearance. Get any warning or check engine lights looked into as quickly as possible.
Make oil changes a clockwork priority. Stay within the manufacturer's recommendations and take 10 minutes out of your day every six months to a year to get your oil changed. We make it easy and affordable at Take 5 Oil Change. You don’t need an appointment—or even need to get out of your car for your oil change services!
If you have any questions about extending your oil change interval, feel free to contact us. Take 5 Oil Change is here to help. If it’s time for your next oil change, drop by a Take 5 location near you. A visit to Take 5 means you’re only ten minutes away from car maintenance peace of mind.
Oil Change FAQs
Why do I need to change my oil?
Your engine needs oil to keep all its internal components lubricated, reducing friction and preventing overheating. However, oil breaks down over time and doesn't do its job as well. Regular oil changes are essential to avoid untimely engine wear or even potential damage.
What happens if the oil in my car is old?
Old or dirty oil loses its lubricating properties, leading to more friction and heat inside your engine. This can cause parts to wear out faster, degrade your car's performance, and, if left unchecked, might even lead to engine failure.
How often should I change my oil?
It depends on your vehicle's make, model, and how you drive it. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil change interval—usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for newer cars using synthetic oil. Sticking to this oil change interval keeps your engine happy.
What oil should I use?
Your car's specs dictate the type of oil you need. Your owner's manual will recommend the right oil viscosity and type—be it conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic. Using the correct oil ensures optimal engine performance and longevity.
How much does an oil change cost at Take 5?
At Take 5 Oil Change, we've got competitive pricing customized to your vehicle's needs. Prices vary according to the type of oil and any extras you request. Contact your local Take 5 for specific pricing details.
How long does an oil change take?
We know your time is valuable! An oil change at Take 5 typically takes just 10 minutes. We perform quick, efficient service without skimping on quality.
How long can you go without an oil change?
It's not a good idea to push past your car's recommended oil change interval. Going too long puts your engine at risk of subpar performance and severe damage. Always aim to change your oil as recommended to keep your engine running smoothly.