It used to be that you would change your oil every 3,000 miles…Not so today! Modern cars are using full and partial synthetic oils…Have you heard of 0w-20 oil?
Dexos approved, API spec, manufacturer approved oils…It’s a whole different ballgame these days. Tighter tolerances & fuel efficiency dictate thinner oils that have lower friction numbers. Combined with tighter emission standards…Oil has become an engineering marvel. Many newer cars call for changing the oil on a flexible service interval, based on your driving habits…short trips? hot weather? cold climate? all highway? You car may know & adjust your reminder interval….Other cars simply turn on the “maintenance reminder light” every 5,000 miles….Each car will be different, and driving habits will vary. To that point, it’s important to know when to change your oil, which oil to use, and what else needs to be done at the same time (remember you may only be servicing your car once a year). Many other items will need attention within these extended intervals of service. Tire rotation happens about every 5,000 miles, as well as tire air pressure changes (check monthly), checking the oil level…Cars can use some oil between changes (it’s not unusual to have to add oil between intervals), top off other fluids (washer fluid) etc… For our average customer Car-Doc suggests changing the oil every 5,000 miles or twice yearly. Don’t hesitate to ask, or stop by if you have any questions. We carry just about every oil for every make of car on the road.