Motor oil is among your vehicle's most essential fluids, since it lubricates the engine's many moving parts. When the oil in your car, truck, or SUV gets low or dirty, it cannot lubricate the engine efficiently, which results in premature friction and wear. If the oil gets low or dirty, the engine can overheat and even seize.
So how often should you change your oil to avoid these pitfalls? Learn about oil change frequency with McGrath Kia and contact our service department if your vehicle is due! Our service technicians are here to keep your vehicle where it belongs, on the roads around Iowa City and the surrounding areas.
What is The Recommended Oil Change Frequency?
How often should you change your oil? The industry standard used to be every 3,000 miles, but auto manufacturing advancements have lengthened this time to every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, oil change suggestions vary in light of different makes and models, as well as the following factors:
- Off-Roading
- Commercial Use
- Heavy Towing
- Racing
All of these activities stress your engine, causing it to use extra oil and result in more gas pump visits in Cedar Rapids or the surrounding areas.
Oil Change Frequency Tips
To help you limit gas station visits and save money, review our best practices regarding oil changes:
- Check your owner's manual to determine whether synthetic or conventional oil is best for your car. Synthetic oil costs more but features chemical additives that help it last longer.
- Oil eventually breaks down, even if you do not drive the vehicle regularly. Change the oil at least twice a year if your car stays parked more often than not.
- Ask the service technicians to change your oil filter during oil change services. A dirty filter cannot remove road dust particles, dirt particles, metal shards, and other contaminants as easily from oil.
- Check the oil level about once a month to avoid low oil-related engine stress. If the oil is brownish-colored or black, it is time to schedule a change. You'll also want to look under your vehicle to inspect for leaks. If oil is leaking, schedule repairs at our service department.
Request Oil Change Services Today!
Now you know how often you should change your oil! If it's time to schedule an oil change appointment, contact our service department at (319) 383-7855 today. We are here to keep you driving around Center Point, Cedar Rapids, and the surrounding areas! For additional information, learn more about our oil change services or schedule your appointment online!