
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
To ensure optimum protection, we recommend changing your oil every 3,000 miles or every three to six months, irrespective of your driving habits.
A new engine, with minimal wear and tear, may extend oil change intervals to 7,500 miles. However, with the accumulation of miles, the engine begins to deposit more unburned fuel into the crankcase, leading to oil dilution and subsequent oil degradation. Insufficient oil changes can result in accelerated wear and a host of associated engine issues, including reduced performance, diminished fuel economy, increased emissions, and heightened oil consumption.
Regular oil changes, forming a crucial part of preventive maintenance, serve as an affordable insurance policy against engine wear. They are an investment that invariably pays off in the long term, particularly if you plan to keep your vehicle for an extended period, exceeding three to four years.
What About the Oil Filter?
To minimize the financial burden of vehicle ownership and maintenance, many automobile manufacturers suggest that you replace the oil filter with every other oil change. However, the consensus among most experienced mechanics contradicts this notion.
In today’s automotive landscape, oil filters have undergone downsizing to conserve weight, reduce costs, and save space. The traditional quart-sized filter that was once a standard feature on most engines has been replaced by more compact pint-sized (or even smaller) filters. It’s evident that a smaller filter inherently possesses a reduced total filtering capacity. Consequently, while these smaller filters may suffice for a 3,000-mile oil change interval, they might reach their filtering capacity well before a second oil change at 6,000 or 15,000 miles. Hence, the practice of replacing the oil filter with each oil change is not only prudent but highly recommended.
When it comes to expert advice and top-notch auto maintenance in the Suitland, Maryland area, Silver Hill Auto Repair is your trusted mechanic. Ensure your vehicle’s longevity and performance by visiting us for your next oil filter replacement and maintenance needs. Your dependable partner in automotive care.
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