Changing your oil is one of the easier maintenance tips that will extend the life of your car. The trick is remembering to change it. So how often should you change your oil? Here's what experts say you need to know.
How often should you change your oil?
Two factors determine when you'll need to change your oil—time and mileage, according to Jake McKenzie, the Content Manager of Auto Accessories Garage. "Both time and mileage will allow the oil to break down and become a less effective lubricant for your engine," McKenzie says.
If you can, check the owners manual for specific oil intervals and the type of oil your car needs, Lauren Fix,
a car expert, and ASE certified technician, suggests. The proper oil
changes for your specific make and model come from the manufacturer. One
of the 7 ways you're wasting money on your car
is assuming all vehicles are created equal. The rule of thumb for most
vehicles, however, is to change your oil after at least 5,000 miles.
Still, some cars might only require full synthetic oil changes after
7,500 to 10,000 miles, according to Fix. "For many years, the standard
advice was every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first,"
McKenzie says. "But thanks to improvements in modern engines and modern
oils, most cars can comfortably drive at least 5,000 miles or even up to
10,000 miles on the same oil."
For people who aren't keeping track of their mileage, another way to
know it's time to change your oil is looking at the dipstick. When it's
dark, it's time to change the oil, according to McKenzie. Newer cars
might even have an oil change light on the dashboard to take out the
guessing work. Once you do change your oil, Fix says to opt for the
synthetic variety—like this—because it's a better lubricant. It costs more, but mechanics know you'll get more miles between changes.
What happens if I don't change my oil?
Over
time, the chemical structures in the oil break down and make it a less
effective lubricant, according to McKenzie. And the oil is there to
reduce friction, which causes heat. So if you leave your oil unchanged
long enough, you're asking for trouble and a hot engine. "This will at
first make your vehicle run less efficiently, but eventually it will
destroy your engine, effectively totaling your car," McKenzie says. If
left long enough, the entire engine will shut down, and you'll have to
replace it.
Those who do keep up with regular oil changes will
reap the rewards for their car and wallet. According to Fix, keeping up
with oil changes helps engines last longer and offers better fuel
economy, too. Not changing your oil often enough is one way you're shortening the life of your car.
Can I just add some fresh oil?
Just
adding oil to your car is a huge mistake. You have to actually change
your oil to get rid of the dirt and grime built up in your engine, which
isn't the same thing as simply adding more oil, Fix says. Plus, your
oil shouldn't be going anywhere, unless there's a leak, McKenzie says.
If there's room to add more oil or your levels are low, you could have a
larger issue like an oil leak. A car in good condition, however, only
needs a routine oil change. If you're refilling any of your car's fluids
every month, it's one of 14 signs your car is about to die.
