The more you understand about oil changes, the more proactive you can be in keeping up with this vital form of service. It's recommended that you have your motor oil swapped out every 7,500 miles or so. The mileage interval changes depending on your driving habits and your model, though.
At Goss Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, we deliver quick and easy oil changes near Stowe, Vermont. We also want to help drivers stay informed about this important procedure. So, we've answered a few important questions in this overview!
When Should I Change My Motor Oil?
You can refer to your model's owner's manual to see how often an oil change should occur. Typically, the recommendation is going to fall between every 5,000 and 10,000 miles. What factors might require you to need more frequent oil changes? A few of the most prominent include:
- High-performance models with powerful engines
- Trucks or SUVs that do a lot of regular towing
- Models exposed to inclement weather, especially intense heat
Basically, the more strain placed on the engine, the more quickly the motor oil is going to need to be replaced. This is why it's important to understand your model and your driving habits. Even if you don't have a high-performance car, but you're a spirited driver who likes to have fun on the open roads, you'll want to keep an eye on your motor-oil quality.
What Does Motor Oil Do?
Many folks understand that motor oil needs to be changed regularly, but may not be sure what motor oil actually does for a car. There are three primary functions of motor oil:
- Temperature regulation in the engine
- The cleaning of debris
- The lubrication of various parts
Essentially, the motor oil helps your car run smoothly and helps it avoid overheating. So, if you go a long while without changing the motor oil, the performance of your model could see a dip.
Signs I Need to Replace My Motor Oil
By paying attention to your car, you can probably tell when the motor oil is starting to wear down. A few of the most prominent signs you have worn motor oil includes:
- A downtick in acceleration or fuel economy
- Your dashboard begins to show warning symbols, such as the check engine light or low motor oil light
- Your car is dispelling more smoke than usual from the exhaust, or you can identify a whiff of burning oil
As soon as your model begins to act oddly, you should try and determine the root cause. If there's a noticeable drop in performance, or if dashboard lights keep indicating an issue with the engine, it could be from worn motor oil.
The best thing to do in these instances is to bring your vehicle to a reliable service shop.
Are You near Stowe, VT? Come for an Oil Change!
A properly timed oil change will boost the performance and longevity of your car. If you have questions about the process or just want to schedule an oil change for yourself, our Goss DCJR team can assist!