Good car owners know that they need to regularly have their oil changed for their car to run as it should. After all, oil is essentially the lifeblood of a vehicle. Neglecting to change the oil robs your vehicle of its performance, leads to engine overheating in Madison, TN and could even void your car’s warranty.
But how often does that oil really need to be changed? The longtime answer of every 3,000 miles or every three months is out of touch with reality these days. Keep reading to find out how frequently you should bring your car in for an oil change.
Change every 1,000 miles
Depending on your driving habits, you may need to have your oil changed more frequently than originally assumed. Drivers with short daily commutes of 10 miles or less should bring their vehicles in for an oil change every 1,000 miles. This is because oil wears down faster if your car isn’t getting up to high speeds frequently enough. Additionally, if you drive an older vehicle, changing the oil more frequently can help extend its lifespan.
Change every 10,000 miles
On the opposite end of the spectrum, some drivers may be able to go much longer without changing the oil. Drivers that upgrade to premium synthetic oil may be able to drive 10,000 miles without bringing their car in for an oil change. Synthetic oil costs quite a bit more than standard oil or a blend, but the cost might be worth it in the long run.
Check your oil
In between oil changes, we advise that all drivers get in the habit of checking to ensure that their car isn’t leaking or burning oil. If the oil level is low, add some more! Low oil leads to serious problems and can cause your engine to overheat in Madison, TN. You’ll also want to check the oil to make sure it’s the right color. Good oil should be a clear brown/black color. If the oil appears cloudy, it’s time for a change.
Monitor the dashboard
Many dashboards these days have two indicators to track oil. One is the oil life monitoring system, and the other is the oil pressure light. The oil life monitoring system light will turn on when your car thinks it’s time for an oil change. This may or may not be the case, depending on the type of oil you have under the hood. When the oil pressure light turns on, bring your car in to the shop as soon as possible. This light indicates that oil isn’t flowing properly and that something is seriously wrong under the hood.
DIY changes vs. professional
An oil change is something many car owners are able to do on their own. However, that might not be the best idea. We recommend bringing your car to a professional to change your oil. On top of using the correct oil for your engine, a mechanic can swap out your oil filter, top off your other fluids and perform a quick inspection of your car. You’ll pay a little bit more for the professional service, but that peace of mind is worth it!
Whether you’re dealing with an engine that overheats in Madison, TN or you need a quick oil change, bring your car to Madison Muffler & Auto Repair. We’re your one-stop shop for all your vehicle’s needs!