When To Change Your Oil

Most car owners ponder over when would be a good time to change the oil in their car

. If you were to read all the information available online on the topic, you will find two distinct schools of thought; experts who believe that the oil in a vehicle should be changed every 3000 miles. On the other hand, there are some other people who believe that most engine oils today are made with fluids of different densities and inevitably have detergent in them which does not allow for the accumulation of soot. As a matter of fact, most manufacturers also recommend that engine oil should be changed every 5000 miles or one year, whichever comes first unless you use synthetic oil.

However, you need to understand that the auto manufacturer recommended interval only applies when the vehicle is operated under optimal conditions; however the majority of drivers operate their vehicle under less than optimal conditions many of which are considered severe for your engine oil such as: frequent short trips (less than 10 miles, especially during cold weather); stop-and-go city traffic driving; driving in dusty conditions (gravel roads, etc.); or driving at sustained highway speeds during hot weather. This means that the 5000 mile oil change will not work for most drivers who don't drive their vehicle under optimal conditions. Because most people drive in more sever conditions they need to use lower intervals for oil changes.

In a survey of 300 plus ASE certified master techs more than 60 per cent said the oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, the long recommended standard. Only 29 percent recommended between 3,000 and 5,000 miles as okay. Less than two percent said oil change intervals of 5,000 to 10,000 miles are acceptable. These and other car repair experts recommend that for normal usage which includes city driving you should change the oil in your car every 3000 to 5000 miles or every four months. This holds true for almost every make and model of automobile.

There are also several other factors that will have a bearing on the frequency of oil change. For instance, one of the reasons why manufacturers can afford to exaggerate the oil change figures is because they are dealing with a new engine with just a few miles on them. However, as you operate the vehicle and accumulate more mileage; it becomes imperative to ensure that the oil in the car is keeping the engine clean and cool. If the oil is not changed as required in older cars, it will result in greater engine wear and tear and trouble such as reduced fuel efficiency, decrease in performance, increased oil consumption and increased emissions.

When sending your car for an oil change, you also need to think about also changing the oil filter. Not changing the oil filter every time you change your oil may save you money in the short run, but in the long term it can take its toll on your wallet by causing major engine problems. Most mechanics are of the opinion that the filter should be changed every time you change your oil. The filters in newer cars are considerably smaller than the quart sized versions used in older models. The pint sized filters of today need to be changed every 3000 to 5000 miles because they will lose efficiency long before the 6000 mile mark is reached.

Regular oil changes for preventative maintenance are the cheapest insurance against engine wear, and will save you money in the long run. It's very unusual to see an engine that has been well maintained with regular oil changes develop major bearing, ring, cam or valve problems under 100,000 miles.

So, the next time, you see your speedometer hitting the 3000 to 5000 mile mark since your last oil change, take your wheels to the nearest certified mechanic for a quick and hassle free oil change and oil filter replacement..

by: Steve Summers

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