How Often Should I Get My Oil Changed?

The technicians of our Ray Price Mazda Service Center receive a common question from local drivers: How often should I get my oil changed? This is definitely a question worth asking, as motor oil plays an integral role in the performance and reliability of any model. So, how can you tell when to change the oil in your car? That's what we'll be getting into with this oil change overview.

Should you need an oil change around East Stroudsburg, Stroudsburg, Easton, Brodheadsville, or Saylorsburg, we're happy to execute it!

How Often Should Motor Oil be Replaced?

There isn't a single, correct answer as to when and how often you should change your motor oil. Certain estimates suggest 5,000 miles, while others go up to 10,000. The easiest way to find out what your vehicle requires is by checking the owner's manual or giving our staff a call.

The reason certain estimates differ from others is because each model is unique. As a general rule of thumb, the harder you press your engine, the more frequent your oil changes should be. What are we talking about when we say, press the engine? It's anything that places strain on the motor.

So, if you do a lot of towing with trailers or boats, the engine is working hard to haul that weight. Fresh motor oil will help your model's towing prowess remain sturdy, so changing the oil every 5,000 miles is important. It's similar if you have a fast, high-horsepower model.

On the flip side, if you only do casual commuting or around-town driving most of the time and aren't asking much of the engine, an oil change may only be needed every 7,500 miles.

Signs You Need an Oil Change

It's good to be on the lookout for signs your model requires an oil change. What might these signs look like? A few include:

• Decreased performance
• Odd noises from under the hood
• An oil change warning light on the dashboard

If the fuel economy or acceleration of your car begins to dip, an oil change may be needed. If you hear unusual noises or if your dashboard warning light pops up with an oil can picture, these are also signs you should head to the shop.

Finally, you can check out the motor oil for yourself every once and awhile. Just remove the dipstick, wipe it off, place it back in, then remove it once more. The oil should be golden brown and fluid. If it's instead black and thick, your model needs new motor oil.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil? Depends on Your Model

Oil changes are a vital part of car ownership. Knowing when to change your oil around East Stroudsburg, Stroudsburg, Easton, Brodheadsville, or Saylorsburg, PA, will lead to lasting performance.

And with the help of our online scheduling tool, it will take no time at all to find and book a visit to our Ray Price Mazda Service Center.