How Often Should You Have Your Oil Changed?

Every car owner knows that keeping up with service helps your car retain its value as well as keep it running like new for as long as possible. At Johnson City Ford, we want to help our customers every step of the way in the car-buying and car-owning process, and that includes the regular service that your car needs.

Getting your oil changed is one of the easiest and best things you can do for your car. If you neglect your car's service needs, you might run into problems that you could've easily avoided. Fresh oil keeps your car healthy like essential vitamins keep you healthy. Find out below how often you should actually be getting your oil changed.

• Schedule Service
• Service and Parts Specials

3,000 Miles: Fact or Fiction?

For a long time, most mechanics and car owners stuck to the get your oil changed every 3,000 miles rule. Things are different today, though. While 3,000 miles was a good guideline for older cars, mechanics are mostly in agreement today that the number has increased for most models manufactured in the year 2008 or later. Because both engine and oil technology have since improved, the new recommended mileage is somewhere in the neighborhood of 7,500, although older models should stick to a lower threshold, like 5,000. Six months is a good general time frame, so that you can also have your car inspected for other services it may need.

How Do You Drive?

Experts also say that the type of driving you do and the climate you live in can affect how often you should get your oil changed. A city-dweller may need to have their oil changed more often because the frequent starting and stopping and short driving distance works the engine hard without giving the oil a chance to warm up enough to work at full capacity. Colder climates also lead to poor oil-functionality for the same reason.

Check Your Owner's Manual

At the end of the day, you should trust your manufacturer's judgment. Nobody knows your car better than the ones who designed and built it. Check your owner's manual to figure out when your particular model should have its oil changed, along with other routine services.

These are just general suggestions to give you a better idea about scheduling your service. Ultimately, one of the best sources to consult would be a mechanic at Johnson City Ford that knows your car well. No two cars are alike, so an expert opinion is always best.

If you'd like to learn more about how often your vehicle should be serviced, stop by our dealership today, located at 207 Princeton Road, Johnson City, TN 37601. We look forward to serving our customers from Johnson City, TN, and throughout Kingsport, Bristol and the Tri-Cities area!