How Often Do I Need My Oil Changed?
An oil change is a routine and essential service that can keep your car running at its best. Not only does it help the engine run smoothly and efficiently, but it can also make sure it continues to provide reliable performance along the roads of Tampa, Citrus Park, and Lutz, Florida.
Engine oil needs to be changed anywhere from every 5,000 miles up to every 10,000 miles. So, how you do you know when it’s time to change the oil in your car? Our Tampa Honda team goes over the questions you’ll need to answer to determine how often you’ll need to change the oil in your car.
What Type of Oil Does Your Car Have?
One main factor in how long the oil in your vehicle’s engine will last depends on which type of oil your vehicle takes. There are two main types of engine oil: synthetic and conventional. The difference between the two types is that conventional oil is made directly from crude oil, while synthetic oil has been modified to provide even more protective properties.
They both work to help keep the engine parts lubricated and maintain a stable temperature within the engine, but they may need to be changed at different times. Synthetic oil is designed to limit how quickly the oil breaks down, which helps it last longer than conventional oil. That being said, synthetic oil comes at a higher price point.
With conventional oil, you’ll typically need to schedule an oil change every 5,000 miles. With synthetic oil, you could drive for 7,5000 miles—and sometimes up to 10,000 miles—before an oil change is necessary. To find out what type of oil your car takes, just refer to the owner’s manual.
What Are Your Normal Driving Conditions?
The rate at which the engine oil starts to wear and lose its abilities to lubricate parts and dissipate heat is also affected by your everyday driving conditions. If it’s during the summer, when the sun is really hot, the engine oil can break down at a faster rate.
Hotter temperatures will cause the oil to thin out, meaning it might need to be changed sooner rather than later. Also, your personal commute might affect the lifespan of the engine’s oil. Do you usually drive around with a car full of passengers or a lot of cargo, or is your drive to work short? This also could result in the engine oil needing to be changed more frequently.
Notice Any Warning Signs?
There are also various warning signs that indicate it’s time to change the engine oil. One of these indicators is if you start to notice louder sounds coming from the engine. When the oil can no longer lubricate parts, they may start to collide with one another and create knocking or rumbling sounds.
Has your vehicle’s gas mileage worsened? Since the oil helps the engine work more efficiently, when it starts to wear, it can affect your car’s fuel economy. You can also inspect the oil yourself to gauge its condition. If you notice the level is low or the color of the oil has darkened, then it’s time to change it.
Time for Your Next Oil Change?
Whether you notice one of these warning signs or realize your vehicle has hit the mileage for its next service, you can schedule your next oil change here at Tampa Honda. Our trained technicians can quickly fill your car with the exact oil it needs to help keep your engine running strong along the roads of Tampa, Citrus Park, or Lutz, FL. Simply contact us now to make your service appointment!