Did you know that most cars last about 200,000 miles? Most vehicles will last about 12 years, but well-maintained vehicles can reach about 300,000 miles. What’s the deciding factor between these two massive ranges?
The main factor is effective vehicle maintenance. One of the most critical parts of regular maintenance is the oil change. But how do you change your oil, and why should you bother?
If you’re curious about how to increase your vehicle’s lifespan, we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about changing your oil and what the task will do. We’ll also look into the regularity of changing your oil.
What Is an Oil Change?
One of the many fluids in your engine is oil. Depending on your vehicle type, you may need a different type of oil.
The oil helps to keep your engine lubricated. The hundreds of small parts generate incredible heat while your engine runs, especially through friction. Your engine will cycle this oil over its parts continuously as it runs.
As the oil flows in and out of the engine, it becomes dirty. Dirty oil is less effective at lubricating the engine and flows slower. In severe cases, the oil may become detrimental due to an excess of dirt.
Changing your oil involves draining your engine of this dirty oil. Once this oil is removed, you fill the reservoir with clean oil.
Benefits of an Oil Change
Dirty oil isn’t only ineffective. It also can cause damage from clogging your engine and carrying foreign materials.
By changing the oil, you ensure you aren’t filling your engine with dirt and foreign particles. These hazards will grind and damage your engine over time, lowering the lifespan of your vehicle.
Not only will this increase the efficiency of your engine, but it will also make your car more fuel-efficient. The right oil can help your car burn gasoline slower, saving you money at the pump.
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
When should you visit our local branch for an oil change? You should measure how long it takes you to need an oil change by miles driven rather than time elapsed. Furthermore, the duration depends on what type of oil you have.
Synthetic oils last about 6,000 miles. On average, this is every six months.
Semi-synthetic oils last about 5,000 miles, or five months. Conventional oil lasts for 3,000 miles or three months.
Some modern vehicles have information on your dashboard that will help you keep track of your oil’s lifespan. If not, you should pay close attention to your odometer. Note when you’ve traveled the above distances and consider having it changed.
As a note, it’s always better to change it too soon than too late. The longer dirty oil circulates in your engine, the more damage it will do.
Performing Vehicle Maintenance
Oil changes are a crucial part of your vehicle maintenance and can be easily completed at the average auto repair shop. Keep track of your distance traveled and proactively change your oil to keep your car running smoothly.
Interested in learning more about auto repair services? Be sure to contact us for more information.