Vehicle oil change intervals

Here's why you should change your vehicle’s oil every 5,000 miles

Recently, we have had many customers ask us about oil changes on their vehicles, specifically newer model vehicles. While vehicle manufacturers state different milage recommendations for changing oil in their specific makes/models, we are recommending changing your vehicle’s oil every 5,000 miles, especially on all newer makes and model vehicles.

Here’s why:

While 0W-20 oil is a full synthetic, it is much thinner blend of oil than older cars take.

The newer cars also “burn oil” between oil changes, so the oil level will need to be checked and topped off more often. Most vehicle manufacturers say if your car burns one quart of oil every 1,000 miles, that is normal. However, when the oil gets dirty, the engine will burn more oil than usual.

As a result, every time the engine runs on low oil, the integral components of the engine wear down, possibly causing severe damage.to the engine.

As we do a lot of engine rebuilds and repairs on vehicles, we see firsthand the damage that has been done to engines, and engine components, of vehicles that have gone too long between oil changes.

Changing your vehicle’s oil every 5,000 promotes longevity to your vehicle, your vehicle engine, and could prevent costly engine repairs, or engine replacement down the road.

Some tips to help you know when your vehicle’s oil needs to be changed:

• Don’t ignore your oil light on the dashboard.

• Check the oil change sticker on your windshield. Most service centers will place a sticker on the upper left corner of the windshield that will tell you when your oil should be changed by the vehicle mileage listed.

• Preparing to take an extended drive, or driving to your vacation destination? It’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked before you embark on your adventure. Depending on the mileage reading of your last oil change, it may be a good idea to have the oil changed before your trip, or after you return.

• Just call your auto service center. Service centers should store all your vehicle’s maintenance records. They will be able to tell you when your vehicle needs an oil change or other maintenance, based on the vehicle’s maintenance history at the service center. PJC

Nick Schepis is service manager at Foreign Traffic Import Sales & Service.