If you ask most people how often oil should be changed in Conway, AR, they’ll tell you every 3,000 miles or every three months. While for many years, the 3,000 miles/three-month mark was absolutely correct, that is no longer the case. As a top name in service and repair for high-performance foreign vehicles, many people have inquired about oil changes after 3,000 miles in Conway, AR
The oil change debate
You’ll hear a lot of conflicting information when you start looking into how often a car needs its oil changed. Nationwide quick lube chains will tell anyone who listens that a vehicle should have its oil changed every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first. More often than not, this recommendation is one made by businesses that prioritize turning a profit over the care of their customers’ vehicles. Bringing your car in for oil changes every three months means more visits that cause you to spend more money at these franchises.
These days, many automotive manufacturers have a much different number for how often your oil should be changed. If you check the owner’s manual of your newer model car or truck, you’ll discover the manufacturer probably advises an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, manufacturers also ask vehicle owners to consider the frequency with which they drive, along with what kind of conditions they face on a regular basis, to best determine how often their car or truck needs an oil change.
The highest number you’ll hear about between oil changes is 10,000 miles. This recommendation comes from synthetic oil makers, and for good reason. Synthetic oil benefits your vehicle more than standard oil, while also being better for the environment. Yes, it is more expensive, but with synthetic oil, a new car can go up to 10,000 miles without an oil change. Some experts estimate that a car or truck that uses synthetic oil can go 15,000 miles or six months between changes.
So, when should you change your oil?
Of course, there’s no single answer for everyone when it comes to how often oil should be changed in Conway, AR. Older cars that sit in a lot of stop-and-go traffic will need maintenance more often. On the other hand, newer vehicles using synthetic oil that drive at steady speeds for 20 minutes or more per day will need oil changes less frequently.
The best way to know when to change your oil is to pay attention to your car or truck. Every month, check your oil to see if your vehicle is leaking or burning oil. If the oil isn’t a clear black-brown color, you’ll want to have your car inspected by a technician. Also, pay attention to the oil life monitoring system on your dashboard, if your car is equipped with one. By tracking mileage and analyzing data from your vehicle’s onboard computer, this system will alert you when it’s time to schedule an oil change.
Unsure if your older vehicle needs an oil change after 3,000 miles in Conway, AR? Looking for a reliable mechanic that you can trust with your car or truck? Contact Riverdale Automotive today. Our team of ASE certified technicians can change the oil in your vehicle and address any other concerns or problems. You can rely on us for all of your vehicle service and repair needs.