How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

How Often Should You Change Your Oil? How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Ever wonder if you're changing your oil too often, or maybe not often enough? The answer isn't always straight-forward. Oil is the lifeblood of your car's engine: It lubricates moving pieces, lessening friction, preventing pricey wear and tear—and it’s important to always keep a close eye on your vehicle’s oil level and quality.

But, knowing how often you should change your oil doesn’t have to be confusing. The team at Burlington Kia has put together this guide to help you better understand the factors that influence how often your oil should be changed near Burlington, NJ, and beyond.

Oil Changes: What’s True and What’s False?

Oil Changes: What’s True and What’s False?

You've likely heard the "3,000-mile" rule for oil changes. This advice originated years ago when cars and technology relating to oils were less advanced. Back in those days, it was generally safe to change your oil every 3,000 miles to provide the best possible performance and extend the life of an engine.

Things, however, have drastically changed. New engines are a lot more efficient and oil formulations are immensely better—and continue to evolve. Nowadays, most car manufacturers highly advise changing the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, sometimes even longer. The best way to find out the correct schedule for your car is by checking your owner's manual. We can also help you find the right timeline for your car to follow.

What Are Some Factors That Impact Oil?

Several factors can influence how often you change your oil, aside from simply going by the manufacturer's recommendation. 

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For instance, your driving habits have the biggest impact. If you regularly drive in stop-and-go traffic or always take short trips, or are regularly towing large trailers—your engine’s oil will break down more quickly and will need to be changed more often.

The type of oil used is another factor. Conventional oil will generally have to be replaced sooner than synthetic blends or full synthetic oil. The latter types are designed to live longer. Climate and weather conditions will also impact oil life. Extremely high or low temperatures can cause oil to deteriorate faster and, therefore, need to be changed more frequently. Additionally, older vehicles with higher mileage typically require oil changes more frequently because of greater wear and tear on the engine.

Signs Your Car Might Need an Oil Change Sooner

Even if you haven't reached your manufacturer-recommended mileage, there are several signs to look out for that can indicate your car needs an oil change sooner.

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Every modern vehicle will use an oil can symbol that will light up if you’re running low on oil. Driving on low oil levels will cause serious damage to your engine if not corrected right away.

Additionally, this could spark the Check Engine light, which should always be attended to as soon as possible. You should regularly check the oil level and color regularly using the dipstick. If the level is low or if the oil is dark and dirty, it’s time for an oil change. 

Schedule Your Next Oil Change With Us

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how often you should change your oil. Factors like driving habits, oil type, climate, and vehicle age all play a role. We recommend you consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil change schedule and be aware of the signs that your car might need an oil change sooner.

By following these guidelines and taking a proactive approach to car maintenance, you can ensure that your engine stays healthy, runs smoothly, and lasts for many miles to come. Book your next oil change with Burlington Kia to get back on the road to smooth driving around Burlington, New Jersey!

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