Do you really need a 3,000 mile Oil Change?

You have probably noticed in your owner’s manual, or have read stories on the Internet about how you do not need to change your oil that often.

 

It can be confusing, so here is our take on the issue!

 

Most vehicle manufacturers have always recommending that you change your oil every 7,500 miles under“NORMAL SERVICE” driving conditions.  The problem is their definition of “NORMAL SERVICE” is NOT“NORMAL”.  Under manufacturer’s definition, “NORMAL” driving conditions would be commuting from Silverdale to Auburn every day.

 

Most manufacturers also state that under “SEVERE SERVICE” driving conditions, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.  Almost all of us fall into the “severe service” driving conditions category.

 

So if you plan on changing your oil every 5,000 miles instead of 3,000 miles, in reality with work, kids and all the other responsibilities that come our way, that 5,000 miles will turn into 6,000 or 8,000 miles putting you way past your goal and potentially jeopardizing the long term investment you have made in that vehicle.  However, if you plan on 3,000 mile intervals, you are more likely to accomplish your 5,000 mile goal anyway and protect that investment.

 

There was recently a class-action suit against Toyota covering 3.5 million vehicles.  Under the settlement, Toyota will repair vehicles with sludge damage if owners can prove a reasonable effort at maintenance.  The sludge problem was a direct result of vehicle owners not understanding the definition of “normal service”.

 

The definition of normal  that vehicle manufacturers use is very deceptive and is designed to make their vehicle look less expensive to maintain.  Even on the newest vehicles with oil life monitoring systems and required synthetic oils, the interval is no more than one (1) year no matter how many miles are driven!!!

 

Here are some of the benefits to having your oil changed 4 times a year:

 

1.    Your vehicle is inspected for any problems that might be developing

2.    Clean oil acts like a detergent and greatly extends engine life.

3.    Seals and gaskets are much less likely to wear out and leak.

4.    Gas stations no longer check your oil level, so you could run low or out of oil.

5.    Your tires get professionally inspected and pressures adjusted as necessary every 3 months.

6.    Frequent oil changes/maintenance will increase your resale value.

7.    It is cheap insurance for your 2nd most expensive investment.

 

Silverdale Autoworks is always here to answer any questions you may have regarding= this or any other vehicle related issues. Whether your preference is to have your oil changed every 3,000, 5,000, 7,500, or 15,000 miles, we work for you! It’s your car and we’re here to serve you and we will work with you so you get the service you need and want.

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