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Routine oil changes are among the best services for extending the life of your vehicle. Oil provides the lubrication your engine’s many moving parts need to avoid friction and the premature wear and tear it causes. Dirty oil, as well as a lack of oil, can eventually cause the engine to seize, preventing the car from running. The guide below explores how often you should have this procedure done.

What Factors Contribute to How Frequently You Need an Oil Change?

Vehicle Model & Year

Your oil change schedule depends in part on your vehicle model. Refer to the owner’s manual, as some manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles compared to the standard 3,000. This is due to vehicle innovations that cause engines to operate more efficiently, with some brands such as BMW claiming you can drive 15,000 miles in between oil changes. Furthermore, always use the oil recommended by your manufacturer to keep the engine in top condition.

Driving Conditions

oil changeIf you regularly drive in heavy traffic that requires you to stop and start, get your oil changed more often than if you drive on highways regularly. Stop-and-go traffic prevents oil from reaching optimal temperatures while also interfering with water vapor burnoff during the combustion process. These issues allow condensation, smoke, and other combustion byproducts to break down oil at a faster rate.

Dusty driving conditions should also prompt you to change your oil more regularly since it will accumulate debris and become a thick, damaging sludge. 

How Often You Drive

You may think you do not need to change your oil as much if you only drive a few days a week or a couple of times per month. Unfortunately, you may need to schedule oil changes more often because the liquid will collect at the bottom of the oil pan and thicken. If the weather is cool, it will get even denser because oil congeals faster in frigid temperatures. Conversely, oil breaks down quickly in hot, humid conditions, especially if it is left to sit for a long time.

 

If your vehicle is due for an oil change, take it to Hillis 66 Service in Lincoln, NE. Proudly serving the region for over 40 years, this modern auto maintenance facility features mechanics certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Call (402) 474-2891 today to make an appointment or read facility reviews online. Get more vehicle maintenance tips on Facebook.

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