The general recommendation for oil changes is every 4,800 kilometres. This being said, Auto Service Kingston advises that there are extenuating circumstances that can affect how often you should have your automobile’s oil changed. The bottom line is that it is crucial that you keep clean and fresh oil in your engine at all times to avoid engine damage. This also prolongs the life you get out of your engine. Let’s talk about these extenuating circumstances below.
Vehicle Manufacturer Recommendations
To start, grab your owner’s manual and see how often your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends you get the oil changed. Most likely, this will be every 4,800 kilometres. This provides the base for determining how often you need to have your oil changed. Keep reading to find out what the other considerations should be.
The Oil Type in the Engine
The owner’s manual will also tell you the type of motor oil that is recommended for your automobile. It’s possible that your manufacturer recommends conventional motor oil, although if you drive a new vehicle, the manufacturer may recommend synthetic motor oil. In the case of synthetic oil, the time between oil changes can be extended.
Your Daily Commute Conditions
Another thing to consider is your daily commute. If you spend a lot of time sitting in traffic or only make quick sprints around town, you need to have your oil changed more often because these driving conditions are hard on your engine. You may be able to extend the duration of oil changes if you drive a long commute on open highways without any traffic. This helps the oil flow through the engine constantly to keep it cool and clean.
How You Drive Your Automobile
We hate to say it, but how you drive your automobile can also affect how often you need to have your oil changed. Be honest with yourself and admit whether you drive your vehicle hard or easy. If you put the pedal to the metal and slam on the brakes a lot, this type of driving is much harder on your engine. If you take it easy and drive slowly, this type of driving is easier on your engine.
Your Vehicle’s Age and Odometer Reading
Finally, your vehicle’s age and the odometer reading can also affect your oil change duration. For example, if you drive a vehicle that has 160,000 kilometres or more on it, you need to have your oil changed every 4,800 kilometres at a maximum. Classic automobiles need to have their oil changed even sooner.
Auto Service Kingston in Kingston, ON, has all of your oil changes covered no matter when you need them.