How many miles after oil change is due?
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. Moreover, if your car’s engine requires full-synthetic motor oil, it might go as far as 15,000 miles between services!
What is the most common cause of excessive oil consumption?
Burning oil is a common problem, but when it is ignored, it can do major damage to your car’s engine. Common culprits that result in burning oil include worn valve stems, guides and seals, and piston rings, all of which can allow oil to seep into combustion chambers.
Is it bad to change your oil more often?
If you’re changing your oil more frequently than necessary, it won’t help your car. It doesn’t harm it either, but you’re wasting money, time and resources. Keep in mind, too, that throwing away oil that’s still usable puts a strain on the environment.
When do you know it’s time for an oil change?
Good oil should be a clear brown-black color, though the Automobile Association of America (AAA) cautions that color is not the only indicator of oil life. If the oil is murky or opaque, it might be time for a change, and if it’s milky, your engine may be leaking coolant.
When to change synthetic oil in your car?
While some experts suggest doing it in most circumstances, Consumer Reports said in 2017 that, generally, you shouldn’t switch to synthetic if your car doesn’t need it. If you frequently tow heavy loads, synthetic oil can help ease the extra strain on your car’s engine.
What does it mean when your car has an oil change?
What Those Dashboard Lights Mean. It’s best to keep track of the miles you drive between oil changes, though some cars make this easier with a dash indicator that tells you it’s time to head to the shop, as part of what is called an oil life monitoring system.