when to schedule an oil change

Oil changes are an important aspect of preventive maintenance for your vehicle. Having your oil replaced regularly prevents dirt and grime from building up in your engine and other components, and ultimately keeps your car running well. Yet, there seems to be some confusion when it comes to the appropriate time line for oil changes. Here, we help you sort through conflicting information with a complete guide on when to schedule this important service for your vehicle.

Follow the Vehicle’s Manual

The reason you’ll hear different answers about the best time to schedule an oil change is because not every vehicle has the same maintenance standards and recommendations. So, it’s important to follow your owner’s manual for your specific make and model. (If you don’t have the manual, you can likely find recommendations for oil changes online.) Your vehicle’s manual will include the ideal number of miles you should wait between oil changes. If you’re unsure when the oil was last changed, schedule a maintenance check just to be safe. For optimal safety and performance, consider making an oil change a part of your vehicle’s regular fall maintenance. For more advice and service, just contact the source for the best oil change Edmonton has to offer, Computerized Autopro.

Think About Your Commute

No matter the distance you travel, driving puts wear and tear on your vehicle, which ultimately impacts your oil’s lifespan. Various driving habits can have different effects on how your oil performs and how long it lasts. For example, many drivers are surprised to learn that numerous short trips can shorten the oil’s life and viscosity. Stalling or sitting in traffic for long periods of time can have the same effect. Extreme temperatures (hot or cold) and/or humidity can also shorten your oil’s lifespan and decrease viscosity. Finally, carrying heavy loads forces your vehicle to use more oil than it should, and you may therefore need more frequent oil changes.

Consider the Type of Oil Used

Oftentimes, the ideal timeframe for oil changes depends on the type of oil you use: synthetic or conventional. Synthetic oil is generally considered to be higher quality and more viscous than conventional oil, and therefore lasts longer. In fact, some synthetic oils can last more than ten thousand miles. So, if you use synthetic oil, it’s likely there’ll be longer periods between oil changes. With that being said, synthetic is more expensive than conventional oil. Ultimately, your mechanic can help you determine which option is best for your vehicle based on its unique requirements and your typical driving patterns.