How Often Do You Need an Oil Change?

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Why Are Regular Oil Changes Important?

Frequent oil changes will keep your engine healthy. Oil is one of the most important fluids in your car, because it protects the engine from overheating and keeps all the moving parts clean and lubricated.

The longer you drive with the same oil, the dirtier and thicker it gets. Over time, its original smooth fluid consistency turns into something more like sludge. This sludge won’t be able to move through the engine easily and won’t be as effective at cooling the engine. This means your engine will have to work harder and will be more at risk to overheat. If this goes on for too long, you might in store from some serious engine repairs.

Basically, regular oil changes will help improve your gas milage and can prolong your vehicle’s lifespan, because your engine is able to perform in top condition.

Signs You Need an Oil Change

There can be a few warning signs that you may be past due for an oil change. You should get your vehicle to a service center if you notice:

• Your is engine making more noise than usual
• You need to fuel up more often
• Oil change or check engine lights are on

If it’s been more than six to 12 months or 5,000 to 7,500 miles since your last oil change, it’s a good idea to get it changed as soon as possible.

Driving in Severe Conditions

While most recommended schedules suggest you only need to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,5000 miles, you might want to change it as frequently as every 3,000 miles if you drive in severe conditions. Severe conditions can be classified as:

• Driving in extremely hot or cold weather
• Doing heavy duty towing
• Driving in stop-and-go traffic

Since you are requiring harder work from your vehicle, you should change the oil sooner. Even after a long road trip, it can be a good idea to replace your oil, because your engine doesn’t usually work so hard.

Changing your oil too often won’t have any side effects, but not changing it often enough can cause real damage. When it comes to your engine and oil, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Get Your Oil Changed Today

Your driver’s manual is an excellent resource if you are still unsure about when you need your next oil change. Our service center is always here to answer all of your questions. Drivers around Zanesville, Cambridge, and Newark, Ohio, can visit our service center for all their maintenance needs.

Contact our team at Zanesville Honda to schedule your next oil change today!