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How Often Should You Change Your Car’s Engine Oil?

How Often Should You Change Your Car's Engine Oil

Undoubtedly, changing your vehicle's engine oil and filter is one of the most beneficial proactive service appointments that should be regularly scheduled and executed. This simple, fast, affordable vehicle service is essential for extending your vehicle's efficiency and protecting the car's engine from more significant failures. Yet, there is still much misunderstanding about the frequency and intervals of oil changes between what automotive manufacturers recommend, what vehicle owners think, and what the dealership is suggesting.

The Difference: Automotive Manufacturers vs. Dealership Service Centres

As vehicle technology improves, many manufacturers upped the suggested intervals between oil changes, with some even extending the range up to 24,000 km. With the promise of fewer maintenance services, automotive brands can imply lower maintenance costs giving them an advantage over their competitors.

Most dealership Service Centres or mechanic shops are more likely to suggest oil and filter change intervals every 5,000 km or every four months.

The question most vehicle owners want to know is, who is right and who is wrong?

Mckeown Motor Sales Service Centre

At Mckeown Motor Sales, we believe it's a matter of balance. Most drivers keep their cars longer than the warranty coverage given by the manufacturer. If you plan on driving your car past the warranty, getting an oil and filter change and inspection completed at least every six months or every 5,000 – 7,500 km is the correct answer.

There are also other factors to consider when making your decision. Short run times on lightweight engines and cold weather conditions can increase the amount of condensation, leading to contamination of your engine oil.

If you want to save money on vehicle maintenance, there are other ways Mckeown Motor Sales Service Centre can help, rather than opting to extend oil change intervals. Check our website for service specials on various inspections, oil changes, parts, tire rotation, and more. You are welcome to contact us anytime with any questions or concerns.