How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Adding oil to engine

All internal combustion engines need motor oil to keep them moving. Just like your blood keeps the muscles moving and healthy, oil changes are vital to your vehicle’s health and longevity. Over the last decade, vehicle manufacturers have made many improvements in engine technology and fully synthetic motor oils that help Montebello drivers to go much longer between oil changes than they used to. Gone are the days of oil changes every three months and 3,000 miles. 

Most new vehicles, like the new Chevrolet on our Monterey Park lot, have an oil change frequency between 7,500 and 10,000 miles. Even so, you should always check your owner’s manual or oil life monitoring system (OLMS) for specifics regarding your exact make and model.

Read on to learn more about your vehicle’s oil change frequency. If you have more questions after that, contact our team at Camino Real Chevrolet.

When Should I Change My Oil?

Some vehicles have a higher oil change frequency than others. However, the general rule of thumb is to get an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Your onboard OLMS will tell you when it’s time to change your vehicle’s oil based on the driving conditions around Los Angeles or target_city_3%%. You should never go more than one year without getting an oil change.

Older vehicles may need more frequent oil changes, like every 3,000 to 5,000 miles because they aren’t made with newer engine parts or engineering standards. You should still consider synthetic oil for an oil change to make the pistons last longer.

Be aware of what conditions you drive your vehicle in. If you’re driving in less-than-ideal conditions for your vehicle’s engine, your engine may require oil changes more frequently.

If you engage in these activities with your vehicle, keep an eye on your oil for signs you need to bring it in for service more often:

  • Off-roading
  • Commercial use
  • Racing
  • Heavy towing

 

Oil Change Frequency Information

Ready for more oil change tips? If so, keep reading our guide! If you still have questions about auto care, oil changes, and vehicle maintenance, contact our service center or give us a call at (323) 843-2018. We want you to get the most out of your car ownership.

  • Check your owner’s manual or vehicle information center to see if your vehicle needs synthetic or conventional oil. Synthetic oil costs more per oil change but lasts longer. You’ll have less frequent oil changes with synthetic oil, and it helps your vehicle’s engine stay in top condition for many years. Most new vehicles require synthetic oil. You will actually save money over the course of vehicle ownership when you go for a synthetic oil change.
  • Oil eventually breaks down, even when the car isn’t driven very much. If you don’t drive often, you should still change your oil at least once per year to keep the oil fresh.
  • Make sure you change your oil filter when you change your oil. Our parts center can find the right oil filter for your specific make and model. Better yet, bring your vehicle into our service center for an oil change! We promise fast, friendly, and efficient service.

How Often Should You Check Your Oil Level?

Check your oil level at least once a month. It’s easy to do! Just lift the hood of your car, prop it open, and look for the yellow or orange dipstick. Over time, your oil will change from a translucent amber color to an opaque dark brown hue. It will also get thinner and more easily drip off of your dipstick.

If you see that you’re low on oil or need auto service, schedule service with us at Camino Real Chevrolet. We can keep your car, truck, or SUV running in top condition for years to come.

Get an Oil Change in Monterey Park

Now that you know how often you should change your oil, bring your vehicle in for an oil change in Monterey Park. Our expert service team does so much more than change your vehicle’s oil. We can take care of tires, brakes, batteries, and just about anything else! Look over our service specials to see how much money you could save on regular car maintenance!

Service Specials at Camino Real Chevrolet

MULTI-POINT INSPECTION

FREE

Includes inspect fluid levels; check steering, suspension, wiper blades, exhaust, undercarriage, belts and hoses. Plus tax, if applicable. Coupon is valid at vehicle check-in.

Please contact us for more information.

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