How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Changing your oil at recommended intervals is vital for the health of your vehicle, but how often should you change your oil? Every 3,000 miles used to be the general rule of thumb, but advances in oil and engine technology extended that estimate to between 7,500 and 10,000 miles for most vehicles. You can always check your owner's manual or contactour service center for an exact number.

Read on for:

  • Oil Change Frequency Guidelines
  • Oil Change Tips
  • Oil Checking Guidelines

Oil Change Frequency Guidelines

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles is only a broad guideline for oil change frequency, so it doesn't fit all vehicles. Any of the following factors can mean needing oil changes more often:

  • Off-Roading
  • Commercial Driving
  • Racing
  • Heavy Towing

Oil Change Tips

Whether you drive a pickup truck around Long Island or simply use your midsize sedan to commute back and forth between Nassau County and Bayside, you should keep these oil change tips in mind:

  • Change the oil at least twice a year, even if you don't drive much. Oil breaks down over time even when the vehicle isn't being used.
  • It's worth getting the oil filter replaced whenever you get your oil changed.
  • Check your owner's manual to ensure you use the exact right oil whenever you need an oil change.

Oil Checking Guidelines

While following proper oil change frequency guidelines is smart, you'll still want to check the oil level once a month to catch any leaks - after all, it doesn't matter how new your oil is if your vehicle doesn't have enough of it to prevent everything from overheating to serious internal damage.

Leave the engine to cool, find your dipstick, pull it out and wipe it down, then reinsert it and slowly pull it back out. If the level isn't between the "Min" and "Max" markers, you need more oil. If you notice any change in your oil's color or the appearance of metal particles, you shouldschedule servicing right away since these can be signs of serious problems.

Our Platinum Volkswagen Service Center Can Take Care of All Your Oil Change Needs

The team here at Platinum Volkswagen will be happy to help whether you want to test drive a new vehicle or get your oil changed. For any further advice, and tips including how often to rotate tires and how often to replace a car battery, simply contact us today.