What kind of oil does a 2002 Pontiac Sunfire take?
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil SAE 5W-30 is preferred. Capacity: 4.5 quarts. (with filter)After refill check oil level.
How often should you change the oil in your car?
One of the 7 ways you’re wasting money on your car is assuming all vehicles are created equal. The rule of thumb for most vehicles, however, is to change your oil after at least 5,000 miles. Still, some cars might only require full synthetic oil changes after 7,500 to 10,000 miles, according to Fix.
When do you need a synthetic oil change?
Still, some cars might only require full synthetic oil changes after 7,500 to 10,000 miles, according to Fix. “For many years, the standard advice was every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first,” McKenzie says.
What happens if you don’t change your oil often?
Those who do keep up with regular oil changes will reap the rewards for their car and wallet. According to Fix, keeping up with oil changes helps engines last longer and offers better fuel economy, too. Not changing your oil often enough is one way you’re shortening the life of your car.
How can you tell when it’s time to change your oil?
For people who aren’t keeping track of their mileage, another way to know it’s time to change your oil is looking at the dipstick. When it’s dark, it’s time to change the oil, according to McKenzie. Newer cars might even have an oil change light on the dashboard to take out the guessing work.
It used to be normal to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but with modern lubricants most engines today have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
When do you need to reset your oil life monitoring system?
Whenever you have your car’s oil changed, the service technician should reset the oil-life monitoring system. If you change your own oil, you can reset the system by following the instructions in the vehicle owner’s manual. Less frequent oil changes on newer engines make it essential that you check the oil level monthly and top it up as needed.
When to call AAA for an oil change?
Oil Change Intervals – Older Cars 1 Primarily short trips (5 miles or less) 2 Extremely hot, cold, or dusty climates 3 Sustained stop-and-go driving 4 Carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer
How can I tell if my car needs an oil change?
You cannot judge engine oil condition by color, so follow the factory maintenance schedule for oil changes. Older cars typically have oil change intervals based on mileage, and have two maintenance schedules, one for cars driven in “normal” operation and another for those used in “severe service.”