Countless drivers today head to the mechanic to have their oil changed every 3,000 miles. They grew up hearing that this is the recommended interval for oil changes and worry that if they miss their service they will hurt their car. However, that is no longer the case.

Experts today recommend having the oil changed at various intervals based on factors specific to the vehicle. One person might find they need to have their oil changed every 1,000 miles while another driver can go 10,000 miles before requesting this service. The easiest way to know what to take the car in for regular maintenance is to speak to the mechanic at a wilsonville auto repair shop and see what they recommend. What are some common intervals mechanics suggest, and why?

1,000-Mile Intervals

People who drive their cars short distances on a daily basis often need to have their oil changed more frequently. Slow speeds mean the engine cannot burn off condensation that builds up in the system. The oil breaks down faster because of this condensation. Furthermore, starting the car puts a lot of wear and tear on the engine, and driving short distances increases this wear and tear. Changing the oil will help to reduce any damage.

3,000-Mile Intervals

Men and women who drive older cars may want to stick with having their oil changed every 3,000 miles, especially if this is the interval recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. However, the mechanic might recommend a different interval. They examine the vehicle and use what they find during this inspection to provide a recommended interval for oil changes. If they recommend something other than every 3,000 miles as outlined in the owner’s manual, ask why they believe the altered interval is best for the car. They should willingly share this information.

5,000-Mile to 7,500-Mile Intervals

Read the owner’s manual for many newer cars and the recommended oil change interval will fall somewhere between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. These intervals are becoming more commonplace today. However, manufacturers typically recommend considering other factors when determining when this work should be done. These factors include the owner’s driving style and habits.

10,000-Mile Intervals

Car manufacturers today often recommend using synthetic oil in vehicles. If a driver chooses to use synthetic oil, the interval between oil changes can extend to 10,000 miles. This oil performs better than conventional oil. In addition, it is better for the environment. Synthetic oil is ideal for vehicles that tow heavy loads because it reduces the strain on the engine. It is also beneficial for those models that have known sludge issues. Making the move to synthetic can help extend the life of the engine.

Regardless of which interval the mechanic recommends, a driver should check their oil monthly. Doing so will help to catch problems early, such as when the vehicle is burning oil. See if the oil is a clear brown or black color. Murky or opaque oil is an indication the oil needs to be changed. If the oil appears milky, the engine is probably leaking coolant and that will need to be fixed.

If the vehicle has an oil monitoring system, however, the vehicle may not have a dipstick. Rely on the monitoring system to alert the driver to problems. If the light appears, visit a mechanic right away to learn what the problem is and how to resolve it. Doing so will protect the engine and extend its lifespan.