When Should You Get an Oil Change?

The all-important oil change: It’s been a staple in the automotive maintenance world since the invention of the automobile. However, even though people have been driving cars for over 100 years, there still seems to be confusion on how often an oil change is needed. For our customers in the New Holland, Reading and Lancaster areas, our team at New Holland Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram wanted to help put this topic to bed once and for all and clear the oil, so to speak.

Most of us understand that waiting too long between oil changes is a dangerous move. After all, without the right amount of clean oil, your engine could potentially destroy itself. However, opting for oil changes every two weeks is more than a bit obsessive. So, what is the golden rule? Keep reading to find out.

Schedule an Oil Change

Using Mileage Intervals

Although its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the 3-month/3,000-mile (or whichever comes first) oil change adage has remained a staple in automotive maintenance advice. However, this is not a one-size-fits-all issue. In fact, virtually every new vehicle can go much longer before needing an oil change. For example, cars built within the last decade or so may be able to go 6,000 miles before needing an oil change. Other models can go for up to 10,000 miles. It all depends on the engine and how efficient it is.

Meanwhile, your classic cars or other older models will typically need oil changes more frequent than 6,000 or even 5,000 miles. For those, it might be best to stick to the 3-month/3,000-mile rule.

Do You Drive in Severe Conditions?

For most drivers, our driving habits are considered normal. Commuting on highways or within our own neighborhoods to get here or there are standard, especially if the conditions are fair. Basic driving like this is easy on your engine and therefore requires less frequent oil changes. However, there are other types of driving conditions that can cause your engine oil to break down more quickly.

Severe driving conditions, as they’re termed in many vehicle owner’s manuals, include driving in dusty areas, extreme temperatures, and stop-and-go traffic. This type of driving causes your vehicle to work harder and can pose a serious threat to the oil inside your engine, which is why more frequent oil changes are needed to keep the engine running smoothly.

Checking with the Manufacturer

Don’t worry if you don’t have the manufacturer’s direct number. You can still get their recommendations for oil change intervals by looking at the owner’s manual they provided with the vehicle. In this helpful booklet, you’ll find definitions for normal and severe driving, along with a recommended maintenance schedule.

Plus, your vehicle may even come with an oil change warning light, which illuminates on the dashboard when the vehicle’s computer detects that an oil change may be needed. You can find out if your specific vehicle has this light by checking your owner’s manual or calling your local service center.

Schedule Your Oil Change Today!

We hope you found this article on how to tell when you need an oil change helpful. If you live in the New Holland, Reading, or Lancaster areas and you think your vehicle may need an oil change, you can easily schedule an appointment at New Holland Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Our team of automotive technicians can change your oil quickly so you can get back behind the wheel. We can even help you learn more about what oil change interval is best for you and whether conventional or synthetic oil is needed. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.