Every car engine requires oil changes to keep functioning smoothly and efficiently, but not all cars require engine oil changes at the same time or mileage intervals.
Depending on the age of the vehicle, type of oil used, and driving conditions, you may require more frequent oil changes or changing out the oil less frequently than your auto maker-recommended oil change intervals.
Continue reading to learn more about the variables that determine your unique oil change schedule.
1. Age of the Vehicle
In older cars, the oil change intervals are either time- or mileage-based, whichever comes first. Most newer car models feature an oil-life monitoring system that lets you know when your oil change is due. This eliminates the need to wait until your vehicle has covered a specified distance or a certain amount of time has elapsed to get your oil changed.
If your car has an oil-life monitoring system, you may require more frequent oil changes than if it were without the system. This is because the system will automatically reduce the oil change interval when it detects heavy vehicle use.
2. Type of Oil Used
These days, there are many different types of auto engine oils with varying prices and quality levels found on the market. In order to help reduce the frequency of oil changes required to keep vehicles running at peak efficiency, modern automakers are going synthetic with their engine oil recommendations.
Compared to conventional oil, synthetic varieties last longer and help to extend oil change intervals. However, this doesn't mean you should disregard your vehicle's suggested oil change schedule.
3. Driving Conditions
The conditions you drive in and how much distance you cover per trip can also determine how frequently you should get your oil changed. Extremely hot and cold temperatures, as well as dusty environments, cause your engine oil to wear out faster, hence resulting in shorter oil change intervals.
Short trips and sustained stop-and-go driving can also be hard on your engine because they don't allow the engine and engine oil enough time to warm up properly. This will create the need for more frequent oil changes.
If you have any questions about your car's specific oil change needs, you should schedule a consultation with a company like Loren's Auto Repair. Every car's oil change requirements are unique, so you should let a qualified mechanic determine that for you. Call today to get started.
