Oil change myths have been around for longest time, and they can make it challenging to know how to care for your car properly. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common oil change myths and give you the information you need to keep your car running smoothly.
Myth 1: You Should Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles
This myth has been around for so long that many people still believe it to be true. However, the truth is that most modern cars can go much longer between oil changes. The standard recommendation these days is to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Some cars can even go up to 10,000 miles or more between oil changes.
The frequency of oil changes depends on many factors, including the type of car you have, the age of the engine, and the type of oil you use. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your car.
Myth 2: You Should Always Use Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is an excellent choice for many cars, but it’s not always necessary. Conventional motor oil is still a reliable option, and it’s often less expensive than synthetic oil.
The type of oil you should use depends on your car and how you drive it. If you drive in extreme conditions, such as very hot or very cold temperatures, or if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, synthetic oil may be a better choice. However, if you drive your car in more moderate conditions and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, conventional oil may be just fine.
Myth 3: You Should Change Your Oil Before a Long Road Trip
Some people believe that they should change their oil before a long road trip to ensure that their car is in top condition. However, this is usually unnecessary.
If you’re following the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule, your car should be in good shape for a long road trip. Changing your oil right before a trip won’t necessarily make your car run better or be more reliable.
Myth 4: You Should Always Change Your Oil Filter When You Change Your Oil
Oil filters do need to be changed regularly, but they don’t always need to be changed at the same time as your oil. If you’re changing your oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, you may only need to change your oil filter every other oil change.
However, if your oil filter is damaged or clogged, you should change it immediately, regardless of when you last changed your oil.
Myth 5: You Should Only Get Your Oil Changed at the Dealership
Many people believe that they should only get their oil changed at the dealership to ensure that they’re getting the best service. However, this isn’t necessarily true.
There are many reputable oil change shops and mechanics that can provide high-quality oil changes at a lower cost than the dealership. Just make sure that you’re using a reputable mechanic who uses the correct type of oil for your car.
Myth 6: You Can’t Drive Your Car Without an Oil Change
While it’s essential to change your oil regularly to keep your car running smoothly, you won’t immediately damage your car if you go a few miles or weeks over the recommended oil change schedule.
If you’re not sure when your last oil change was or if you’re overdue for an oil change, it’s a good idea to get it done as soon as possible. However, you don’t need to panic if you’ve gone a little longer than you should have.
Myth 7: You Should Always Warm Up Your Car Before Changing the Oil
While it’s a good idea to warm up your car before changing the oil, it’s not always necessary. Modern engines are designed to warm up quickly, so warming up your car for an extended period is often unnecessary. In fact, idling your car for an extended period can waste fuel and contribute to air pollution.
Oil changes are an essential part of vehicle maintenance, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to oil change myths. By understanding the truth behind these common myths, you can save money and ensure that your vehicle’s engine is running smoothly for years to come. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific oil change guidelines and have your oil tested regularly to determine its condition.
