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Arguably, the most common interval between oil changes is 3,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. However, this is only a rule of thumb. You’ll find your specific model’s actual recommendation in the owner’s manual.
The 3,000-mile/six-month rule was created decades ago when vehicles weren’t built as efficiently as they are today. Modern vehicles have more durable and effective systems that can allow them to go further without an oil change, especially when it’s given quality oil. However, as your vehicle grows older, you should consider getting closer to that old rule of thumb. As your vehicle goes through wear and tear over the years, its systems grow less efficient and may need oil changes more often.
The best ways to decide on the appropriate oil change interval for your vehicle is to check the owner’s manual and to have a conversation with a trusted technician about what your vehicle needs according to your driving habits and the vehicle’s age.
Other factors that affect how often your vehicle needs an oil change include how fast you drive, how long you spend on the road, and what type of weather you’re driving your vehicle through. These are all aspects of your driving habits that you should discuss with your certified technician so that they can develop a proper maintenance plan for your vehicle.
To understand why you need an oil change, you must first understand what role oil plays in your vehicle. As your engine moves and creates the force needed to push your vehicle forward, it creates heat through friction. That heat and friction are your engine oil’s main targets.
Oil helps keep your engine cool by carrying heat out of its components. Without proper oil levels, this heat can build up until your engine overheats or damages itself or both. Much of this heat is generated by the friction of your engine’s components rubbing against each other. The oil acts as a lubricant for these adjacent moving parts to reduce the amount of friction they experience. Without oil, this friction will simply cause the moving parts of your engine to damage and destroy each other.
Engine oil also plays a role in carrying debris away from your engine. Dirt, metal flakes, and other substances can find their way into your engine as you move through the world. It’s oil’s job to collect these particulates and debris and deposit them in your oil filter. Over time, this task makes your oil dirty, more sludge-like, and less able to flow freely through your system. This makes it more difficult for your engine to get the lubrication and cooling it needs.
There is not a one-size-fits-all type of oil that you should be filling your car with. There are several types of engine oils produced in varying grades of quality that you and your technician will have to decide between.
Four of the most popular types of engine oil include:
Conventional oil is your run-of-the-mill oil type. It’s often the most affordable. For drivers who don’t drive a lot and don’t have complex engines, conventional oil may be just fine.
High-mileage oil is exactly what it sounds like. If you drive a lot, you should fill your car with oil that’s designed to handle your driving style.
Synthetic oils are engineered to perform better than conventional oil. If you live or often drive through places with very high or very low temperatures, synthetic oil is the best option as it is better at maintaining its viscosity.
Synthetic-blend oil is great for drivers of large vehicles and drivers who do a lot of towing. This is a blend of synthetic and conventional oil that gives you a good balance of the benefits of both styles. If you often carry heavy loads or your vehicle itself is a heavy load, synthetic-blend oil is the way to go.
Getting your oil changed at a quality, certified dealership is a great way to ensure your vehicle is getting the professional care it needs. A good oil change is more than simply an oil change — it should be a quick doctor’s visit for your vehicle. When you bring your vehicle to our CJDR dealership, you can rest assured it will be a job well done. And if you have a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, you can give your vehicle the help it needs with genuine manufacturer parts.
When you’re ready to get your vehicle a fresh oil change, feel free to schedule a service visit with our technicians at Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Centerville near Dayton, Ohio. With our years of experience, we go beyond simply performing oil changes. We also provide a customer service experience that we hope makes you choose our dealership and service center for all of your vehicle needs. If you have any questions about our oil change services or your vehicle’s maintenance, feel free to contact us or swing by for a conversation.
As always, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle in the Centerville, Ohio area, Performance Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has you covered. Get in touch with our knowledgeable and friendly staff today to get started in your search for your next favorite vehicle. Call us today at (937) 519-3542.