How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
You’re probably aware that the
oil change is one of the most common forms of automotive service that you’ll need to have performed regularly. However, not every driver knows how often they should change their oil because vehicles and oil types differ.
At Boardwalk Honda, we’re here to give drivers in Atlantic City, Egg Harbor, and Galloway a little more insight into their vehicle’s oil, why it’s crucial to change it, and how often to change it.
Why Does My Car Need Oil?
Oil is essential for your vehicle to perform at its best. Your engine contains moving metal parts that are constantly grinding against each other while the vehicle is in motion. Oil acts as a lubricant to allow these moving components to function properly without causing friction. It also helps keep these components clean by picking up the dirt and debris in your engine. If your vehicle is running on old or low oil, these parts could cause friction, resulting in an overheated engine.
Why Does My Oil Need to Be Changed?
While oil is crucial for your vehicle’s performance, it also has a short life span. Since oil works hard at keeping your engine parts clean and functioning properly, it gets dirty.
Fresh oil has a golden-brown color, but when it’s nearing the end of its life span, it appears dark, gritty, and sludge-like. At this point, it doesn’t lubricate your engine parts as well. You’ll likely notice a sluggish and loud performance when it’s nearing the time for an oil change.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
If you have a newer model Honda, you’ll want to get your oil changed about every 7,500 miles. Older models (before 2008) should have their oil changed every 3,000 miles. The reason for the difference in oil change intervals is that newer models use synthetic oil, which lasts longer than conventional oil.
When you have your oil changed, you’ll want to stick with either Premium Grade Oil with the API Certification Seal or Honda Genuine Motor Oil. You may need to have your oil changed a few times a year, depending on how often or how far you drive.
Knowing When to Schedule an Oil Change
Honda drivers can always rely on their Maintenance Minder system to let them know when it’s time to change their oil. This system uses mileage and a sensor to tell when the time is right for an oil change.
But now that you know how often you should change your oil, you’re ready to keep your vehicle in great shape throughout the years. You can always contact us at Boardwalk Honda. Our
service technicians perform oil changes on a daily basis, so they’ve got the knowledge and the skill to perform this simple yet highly important form of automotive service.
Whether you’re keeping an eye on your odometer or your Maintenance Minder system is flashing a code, you can count on us at Boardwalk Honda for service.
Schedule your oil change service with us today so your vehicle can perform at its best on the roads in Atlantic City!