Unless you're driving an electric vehicle, changing your car's oil is the car ownership equivalent of going to the dentist every six months for a cleaning. Your mechanic cleans everything out and checks for any potential issues you must address.
Until recently, it was standard to change your car's engine oil every 3,000 miles, but advancements in oil blends and automotive technology now recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for most engines.
Changing your oil too often won't hurt your car, but it will hurt your budget. On the other hand, not changing it often enough can hurt both your car and your budget. Read on to know exactly when to change your oil at a AAA-approved auto repair facility.
Types of Car Oil and When to Change Them
Modern engines undergo rigorous testing to meet exacting standards, and as a result, they require specific oils that meet industry and manufacturer specifications for long service life.
Specifically, the oil you select should fit the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) viscosity grade. It should also meet performance standards from one or all of the following advisory boards:
- The American Petroleum Institute (API)
- The International Lubricant Specification Advisory Committee (ILSAC)
- The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA)
Your auto repair shop can also provide information on your vehicle's recommended oil specifications.
Conventional Oil
Conventional motor oil is the most common and is made from refined crude oil. It's a great option for driving under normal service conditions, and drivers often prefer it because it's cheaper than the other types of car oil.
However, conventional oil requires more frequent oil changes (generally every 5,000 miles) because it breaks down faster than the other types of car oil.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is an oil created entirely in a lab from chemical ingredients. Because it is engineered rather than refined, it:
- Doesn't break down as quickly as conventional oil
- Contains fewer natural impurities that form into sludge over time
- Is more viscous at extreme temperatures
- Flows faster through the engine
These factors make synthetic oil better for severe service conditions and high-performance or high-mileage engines. Mechanics also recommend it for older engines that need additional protection from damage.
Synthetic oil costs more upfront, but fewer oil changes every 10,000 to 15,000 miles can save money. However, periodic air filter replacements may be necessary to prevent dust and debris from entering the engine.
Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic Blend Oil
Synthetic blend oil is a mix of conventional and synthetic oil, making it a middle-of-the-road option in terms of performance, price and oil change frequency (every 6,000 miles).
How to Check Your Oil Level
While oil can last longer between changes, not getting your oil changed as often makes checking your oil level regularly more important, so keeping an eye on your oil level will help you avoid costly car repairs. If your oil level drops too low, it can cause damage that your new-car warranty doesn't cover.
To check your oil level:
- Park on level ground and turn the car off.
- Pop the hood.
- Remove the oil dipstick from the engine (Your owner's manual can tell you where to find the dipstick and how to remove it).
- Wipe the dipstick with a clean, lint-free cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully before removing it again.
- Read the oil level. Identify the high and low oil markings. As long as the oil level is within that range, you don't need to add oil.
- If you are low on oil, add half a quart at a time, repeating steps 5-7 until the oil is within the limits indicated on the dipstick.
- Wipe the dipstick one last time with your lint-free cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick and attach it securely.
- Close the hood.
What Happens If You Don't Change Your Oil?
Your engine contains several moving parts, and engine oil protects and cleans them while cooling your engine.
While you can go a few miles over or a few weeks past the suggested oil change intervals, going an extended time without changing your oil can have several negative consequences:
- Overheated engine: Engine oil helps cool parts that coolant can't. As oil degrades, it loses heat-absorption capabilities, potentially causing engine overheating, warping engine parts and releasing toxic chemicals through the exhaust.
- Damage to engine components: Oil lubricates moving engine parts, reducing friction. Deteriorating oil increases wear and tear, potentially causing engine damage indicated by banging sounds.
- Dirt buildup: Oil collects debris, which can turn into sludge over time. Accumulated dirt can limit oil's movement through the engine and potentially require complete engine replacement.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Degraded oil forces the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel and reducing overall fuel economy.
- Voided warranty: Failing to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule can invalidate your warranty, leaving you responsible for expensive engine repairs.
Factors that Influence Oil Change Frequency
Vehicle Mileage and Age
Older cars have mileage-based oil change intervals, with separate schedules for normal and severe service conditions. The latter involves operating your car under one or more of the following conditions:
- Primarily short trips (5 miles or less)
- Extremely hot, cold or dusty climates
- Sustained stop-and-go driving
- Carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer
For severe service conditions, follow the more rigorous maintenance schedule outlined in your owner's manual. Otherwise, be cautious of unnecessary expenses for oil change services and other maintenance your car may not require.
Most newer cars feature oil-life monitoring systems that automatically alert you when it's time for an oil change. These newer designs analyze vehicle operating conditions to identify when the oil will begin to degrade.
Newer cars eliminate آ€آœsevere serviceآ€آ recommendations because the oil-life monitoring system automatically shortens the oil change interval when it detects heavy-duty operation. When your oil is changed, the technician should reset the monitoring system.
Driving Habits
Driving habits can impact how often your vehicle requires an oil change. Driving habits that can increase oil change frequency include:
- Stop-and-go traffic: Vehicles used in heavy city traffic experience difficulty reaching a consistent temperature, leading to quicker engine oil degradation.
- Heavy loads: Vehicles that carry heavier loads, such as those towing trailers, experience increased stress on the engine. This added stress heats the oil more, resulting in quicker degradation.
- Highway driving: Vehicles that travel longer distances on highways can maintain optimal oil temperature and prevent oil degradation.
We recommend letting your technician know about your driving habits so they can recommend the best oil change frequency for your vehicle.
Type and Quality of Engine Oil
Most late-model cars require synthetic blend or full-synthetic oil. This includes low-viscosity, multi-grade, resource-conserving oil types that minimize friction and maximize fuel economy.
Engine Oil Maintenance Tips
Check your engine oil regularly during the intervals between oil changes to ensure optimal engine performance. Below are a few important tips to help maintain a healthy engine.
1. Oil Change Frequency
Maintaining your vehicle's proper oil change frequency is essential for its longevity and performance. You can typically schedule an oil change when you take your vehicle in for a tune-up service. If you need clarification on the recommended frequency, check the manufacturer's recommendations or ask a certified technician for their professional opinion.
2. Proper Oil Levels
It's recommended to check your oil about once a month. Complete the following steps to inspect your engine oil:
| How to Inspect Your Engine Oil | |
| Step 1 | Wait for your car to be fully turned off and cooled down. |
| Step 2 | Locate the dipstick, which is usually identifiable by a colored circular handle. It can be found on the left, front, right, or other sides of the engine, depending on the vehicle. |
| Step 3 | Remove the dipstick completely and wipe it clean. Reinsert the dipstick fully into the engine, then remove it to check the oil level. |
Reinsert the dipstick fully into the engine, then remove it to check the oil level.
Regularly checking your oil levels ensures your engine parts are protected and functioning properly.
3. Regularly Inspect Oil for Smell, Look and Feel
When you check your oil level, inspect for color and consistency. You're good to go if the engine oil is amber in color, slightly translucent and at the standard oil level. However, if the oil is dark, dirty and doesn't meet the oil level, it may be time to take your vehicle in for an oil change.
FAQ
Here are some answers to other FAQs related to oil changes to help you make the best decision for your vehicle.
What is an oil change?
During an oil change, a mechanic removes used motor oil from your vehicle's engine and replaces it with new oil. They will also replace the old oil filter with a new one to ensure your oil stays clean over time.
While they have your car, most mechanics will also perform a safety check on your lights and tires and a quick inspection of other parts of your vehicle to ensure that everything is working correctly.
How much does an oil change cost?
An oil change can cost anywhere from $20 to $100, depending on where your oil is changed and the type of oil you select.
Changing your oil yourself is the cheapest way to change your oil, averaging about $40. However, you'll have to dispose of the oil responsibly.
How many miles can you go over an oil change?
Oil change intervals aren't exact, and your driving habits can impact how frequently you need an oil change, so you can go a little over the recommended limits.
However, if your oil-life indicator light illuminates, you should schedule an oil change ASAP to prevent damage to your engine.
Where should you get an oil change?
When deciding where to get your next oil change, most drivers opt for either the vehicle's manufacturer dealership or an auto repair shop. Consider the following factors:
- Certifications: Check if the auto repair shop and/or their technicians have earned reputable certifications and training. Certified technicians are knowledgeable about proper oil change services.
- Quality of parts: Confirm whether the repair provider uses high-quality filters and oil that meet your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.
- Customer service: Select a service provider that offers exceptional customer service and value that matches the price you're paying. Look for positive feedback in online reviews and testimonials.
- Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is under warranty, it may dictate where you can take it for servicing. The provider must meet your vehicle manufacturer's requirements to maintain warranty coverage.
AAA Auto Repair provides information on nearly 7,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities that meet AAA's high standards for appearance, technician training and certification, insurance coverage and customer satisfaction
What happens if you miss the oil change interval?
If you need to catch up on scheduling an oil change, only stress if it's been an extended period, such as over a year or well beyond the recommended interval.
Going for an extended period without an oil change can significantly affect your vehicle's engine performance, potentially leading to more serious issues such as engine failure. We recommend scheduling your next oil change appointment while you're at the auto shop getting your current oil change to ensure you don't forget to bring your vehicle in.
Can I change my oil once a year?
How long you can go between oil changes varies depending on your driving habits, vehicle age and type. Those driving more frequently, such as daily commuters, may need several oil changes yearly. However, if you don't drive your vehicle very often, you may not need servicing as often, and can likely stretch to a year between services.
However, it's not recommended that commuter vehicles go a full year without an oil change to prevent reduced engine performance and increased wear.
What should you rely on to determine when to change your oil?
Always defer to the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual for oil change intervals. While oil-life indicators are helpful, they are not always accurate.
How often should you change your oil filter?
Always defer to the recommendations in your owner's manual. Most manufacturers suggest replacing your oil filter at every oil change to keep your engine running at its best.
Does oil go bad if you don't drive your car?
Engine oil will go bad if you don't drive your car. Conventional oil can separate, and dust and debris can cause it to clump. You should always change the oil once a year, even if you don't meet the minimum number of miles.
Use a AAA-Approved Facility for Your Next Oil Change
Bring your car to one of AAA's nearly 7,000 Approved Auto Repair Facilities if your car needs an oil change. Our approved facilities have met AAA's high standards for technician training and certification, insurance coverage, appearance and customer satisfaction.
In addition, AAA members qualify for special benefits, including discounts on labor, an extended 24-month/24,000-mile parts and labor warranty, and support.