How Often Do You Need an Oil Change?

You have an entire routine to keep yourself ready to take on the day: Hygiene, hydration, and more all go into you looking and feeling your best. Your car works similarly: Staying on top of the care it needs can lead to more smooth drives that delight with expert performance. You’ve likely heard about oil changes for your car, but when do you know it’s time for one?

The team in our service department has seen it all when it comes to auto maintenance in Tinton Falls, Middletown Township, and Long Branch, New Jersey. We’re here to help answer the question, “How often do you need an oil change?” so you can keep driving confidently. If you have a question, give us a call at World Subaru and we’ll be happy to help!

Your Owner’s Manual: The Gold Standard

The people who made your car are the ones who know it best. After all, it was designed inside and out by a team of expert engineers. That makes the manufacturer your first go-to when it comes to learning your ride’s maintenance schedule.

Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and you will find a wealth of information relating to maintenance. This includes what the recommended oil change interval. This is typically measured by both miles and time and takes place when the first interval occurs. If you suspect you need other metrics, there are other ways to go about oil change frequency.

Typical Motor Function

If you drive a typical car that uses conventional motor oils, then you can get in the habit of changing your oil every six months or 3,000 miles. This frequency helps ensure your engine has clean oil to perform the vital functions. This rough estimate is a good rule of thumb when you want to establish a routine.

If you drive a newer model car, you may be able to wait a bit longer between oil changes. It’s possible that your car can go 7,500 miles or even up to 10,000 miles before needing an oil change. Get to know your specific model to get a clear idea of its oil needs.

Synthetic Oils

Synthetic motor oils are manufactured to take even more of the intense environment your engine creates. They break down slower and are able to perform longer within your car. These oils can go as far as 15,000 miles and up to 12 months. Be sure to ask a service technician about synthetic motor oil and if it’s right for your engine.

Listen to Your Ride

Lastly, be sure to look for signs that your car needs an oil change. Your dashboard likely has a specific light for this occasion, or the check engine light could be tied to old motor oil.

You may also encounter performance issues if your oil is dirty. If you notice any of these concerns, schedule your oil change service as soon as possible:

• Vibration when idling
• Unusual sounds from the engine
• Exhaust smoke

Ideally, you’ll have your oil changed before these start occurring. Should you come across them, though, be sure to have them addressed by professionals.

Schedule Your Next Oil Change Today

Now that you can answer, “How often do you need an oil change?,” schedule your next service visit before embarking into Tinton Falls, Middletown Township, and Long Branch, NJ. Contact us at World Subaru and set up a service visit today.