How often should you change your oil in months?

That depends on factors specific to you and your car, such as what kind of driving you do (e.g., stop-and-go traffic or highway driving), how much mileage you're adding and whether your car uses regular or synthetic oil.

When should I get my next oil change?

If your car is relatively new, and you usually drive 20 minutes or more and achieve fairly steady speeds (as opposed to stop-and-go traffic the entire drive), you are a prime candidate for increasing the time between your oil changes. However, if your car is older, it's best to stick with the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

April 11, 2023

How often do you really need to change motor Oil?

The frequency with which you need to change your motor oil depends on various factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, driving conditions, and type of oil used.

As a general rule of thumb, most manufacturers recommend changing the oil and oil filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, some modern vehicles equipped with synthetic oils and advanced engine technologies can go up to 10,000 to 15,000 miles between oil changes.

It’s also important to check your vehicle’s owner manual for specific recommendations and to consider the type of driving you do. For example, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, drive in dusty or dirty conditions, or frequently tow heavy loads, you may need to change your oil more frequently.

Ultimately, changing your oil on a regular basis is essential for maintaining your engine’s health and prolonging its lifespan, so be sure to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.

It’s generally not recommended to change your oil only once a year, as engine oil can break down over time due to heat, moisture, and contaminants. While some manufacturers and synthetic oil brands advertise extended drain intervals of up to 15,000 miles or more, these intervals may not be suitable for all driving conditions and vehicle types.

If you drive your vehicle frequently and put a lot of miles on it in a year, it’s best to change your oil and oil filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, if you don’t drive your vehicle often or only use it for short trips, you may be able to extend the oil change interval to every 12 months.

Ultimately, it’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended oil change interval for your specific make and model, as well as to consider your driving habits and the conditions in which you drive. Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining your engine’s health and preventing costly repairs down the line.

It’s not recommended to go two years without changing your engine oil. Over time, engine oil can break down and lose its effectiveness in lubricating and protecting your engine from wear and tear. In addition, contaminants like dirt, debris, and moisture can accumulate in the oil, leading to engine damage and reduced performance.

While some manufacturers and synthetic oil brands may advertise extended drain intervals of up to 15,000 miles or more, these intervals may not be suitable for all driving conditions and vehicle types. It’s generally recommended to change your oil and oil filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first, for most vehicles and driving conditions.

Ultimately, the recommended oil change interval for your specific make and model can be found in your vehicle’s owner manual. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining your engine’s health and prolonging its lifespan, so it’s important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

If you don’t change your engine oil every 6 months, your engine may suffer from various problems such as:

Engine Wear: As the oil circulates through the engine, it becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can cause it to break down over time. As a result, the oil can’t lubricate the engine components as effectively, leading to increased wear and tear on the engine.
Reduced Engine Performance: When engine oil breaks down, it loses its ability to lubricate and protect engine components, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency. This can result in decreased acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and other performance issues.
Overheating: Engine oil also helps to regulate engine temperature by transferring heat away from the engine components. If the oil is too old or degraded, it can’t transfer heat effectively, leading to increased engine temperature and the risk of overheating.
Engine Failure: If engine oil isn’t changed regularly, it can lead to severe engine damage and even engine failure. This can be caused by increased wear and tear on engine components, overheating, or other problems.

In summary, failing to change your engine oil every 6 months can lead to significant engine problems and reduced performance. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining your engine’s health and prolonging its lifespan, so it’s important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle.