Performing regular maintenance on your vehicle is a normal part of being a car owner, but the suggested time frame for some tasks can be blurry sometimes. Bringing your car to an experienced auto mechanic who offers oil change services helps keep our cars running smoothly, but how often should the oil be changed?

While you may have heard a vehicle’s oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, that number isn’t a definitive rule. Instead, the frequency which you bring your car in for oil change services should depend on the driving you’re doing—not only the distance. If your car is primarily used for trips to and from work and everyday errands, there’s little need to have the oil changed every 3,000 miles. There will most likely be no significant impact on your vehicle’s performance between 3,000 and 7,500 miles.

If you drive in more severe conditions, however, bringing your car in for oil change services more often is recommended. Driving in stop-and-go traffic in hot temperatures, taking many short trips, driving on dirt roads, and towing a trailer or carrying items on the roof are all examples of severe driving conditions. If any of these situations make up the majority of your driving experience, having your car’s oil changed more frequently will help guarantee its continued efficient performance.

Ultimately, how often you change your car’s oil is up to you. Whatever interval you choose, you don’t want to exceed the recommended mileage listed in your owner’s manual. The classic 3,000-mile rule, however, isn’t the best fit for every scenario. By taking stock of your driving habits and consulting your manual, you can set a time frame that will help keep your car in great working order for many years to come.

A-1 Auto A/C Specialist & General Auto Repair is proud to offer competitive pricing and exceptional customer service to all residents of Honolulu, HI. From oil change services to transmission repair and everything in-between, the company’s talented team will have your vehicle running in top shape in no time. For more information, call (808) 836-2939 or visit their website.