When do i change oil

Synthetic oil is better than regular oil because it doesn't break down like regular oil, so you can go longer between oil changes. Synthetic oil can also withstand more extreme temperatures; it won't break down in a hot engine or during hot weather. In winter, synthetic oil can resist the effects of cold, which means that it'll start flowing as soon as you start your car. Sign up for our Newsletter! Mobile Newsletter banner close. Mobile Newsletter chat close. Mobile Newsletter chat dots.

Mobile Newsletter chat avatar. Mobile Newsletter chat subscribe. Under the Hood. Vehicle Maintenance. Do you really need to have your car's oil changed every 3, miles? Experts say not necessarily. Every 1, miles 1, kilometers or every six months Every 3, miles 4, kilometers Every 5, to 7, miles 8, to 12, kilometers Every 10, to 15, miles or every six months 16, to 24, kilometers.

If you're not making long trips at high, steady speeds like you would on a highway then your engine isn't getting hot enough to boil off condensation that accumulates in the system. That can cause oil to break down faster. Most of the wear and tear on your car's engine occurs when you're starting your car, and if you aren't driving very far, most of your driving is of the type that is very hard on your engine. More frequent oil changes will help minimize the damage. When your car's on the lift for an oil change, other wear items such as brake pads, coolant, tires, and shocks can also be assessed and possibly replaced.

So it's also obviously good for their business. With older vehicles, which may burn oil, you'll want to check the oil level using the dipstick at least once a month. But if you're not driving your car in severe conditions—and few of us are—you can stick to the manufacturer's recommended oil-change intervals which often include an oil-filter change at the same time. And of course, if your car has an oil-life monitor, heed that. What about using premium extended-life and pricey synthetic oils for projected 10, and even 12,mile changes?

About synthetics: Almost all newer vehicles use synthetic oil, so if the manufacturer specifies that, you must use it. Many older vehicles weren't filled with synthetics when new and still use conventional petroleum-based oil. In that case, you have a choice. Some oil refiners produce sophisticated carmaker-approved extended-life oils that do help stretch the time between changes.

These oils have special chemistry or additives that support their ability to go longer distances. They resist high-temperature breakdown better and keep dirt and particulates in suspension longer so that the oil filter can catch them. They also cost more than standard oils; you'll need to do the math to see if it's worth the extra cost. If you operate on dirt roads or in dusty or road-salted environments and do lots of cold starts and short runs, the factory oil filter has only so much scrubbing capacity.

Make sure you get your oil change soon after you receive such an alert. How Often to Check the Oil Level. But if the oil is below the minimum mark, you need to add oil. How Often to Change the Oil. Choosing the Right Oil for Your Car. If you have a much older car, do you need special motor oil? Do You Need Synthetic Oil? Car Maintenance Myths. Consumer Reports Since , Consumer Reports has been testing products and working to create a fairer, safer, and healthier marketplace.

Sharing is Nice. Yes, send me a copy of this email. Oops, we messed up. Try again later. You may have faulty engine parts or an oil leak. Every car is different, but most should have their oil changed every 3, miles or three months. New vehicles usually require a change of oil every 6, miles or six months. Consider a high-mileage oil for older vehicles.

Oil changes are simple and inexpensive, and one of the most important things you can do to keep your car from aging prematurely. Having the right level and quality of oil will prevent excessive wear and tear on your engine, ultimately resulting in fewer repairs down the road.

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