Oil Changes: How Often is Enough?

“Engine Oil: Your Car’s Life Blood… No other maintenance item is so important for extending the vehicle’s life and reducing repair costs.” – AAA Auto Guide: Making Sense of Car Care

Why do you need to change your vehicle’s oil? Contaminants slowly accumulate in a vehicle engine; if you leave them there, it can cause major damage to your automobile. When you change the oil, contaminants such as carbon and metal are removed.

 IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHANGE YOUR OIL REGULARLY!

Take this quick quiz:
Do any of the following describe your driving or environment?

[ ] Frequent stop-and-go driving
[ ] Temperatures falling below 32 degrees Fahrenheit
[ ] Extended engine idling
[ ] Dusty driving conditions
[ ] Trips less than 10 miles
[ ] 50% of driving is a high speeds during hot weather (50 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
[ ] Towing
[ ] Delivery or commercial vehicle
[ ] Frequent off-road operation
[ ] Use of E-85 (ethanol) fuel

Do any of these apply to your driving style? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions it is important that you change your oil at least every 3,000 miles.

Note: It is also important to regularly check your oil. If the oil level is below the ADD mark, make sure to add enough to be in the Full Range Mark.


If your engine runs out of oil, it could cause irreversible damage. You may have to replace the entire engine!