How often should I change my oil? What are the best places to have an oil change?

As with most things, the answer is "it depends". Lets assume you have a fairly new car, just a few years old with less than 75,000 miles. The old answer used to be every 3,000 miles.As engine efficiency has improved, the frequency of the oil change has increased.

Many manufacturers recommend an interval of 7,500 miles. That assumes normal driving. The whole reason that oil needs to be changed at all, is that after time, oil gets contaminated with carbon, and other various byproducts of the combustion process.

If you make a lot of short trips with your car, and the engine doesn't get a chance to completely warm up, then things will run a little less efficiently causing more wear on the oil. In extreme use conditions like that, the oil should be changed about every 3,000 miles.As a even compromise, the Car Talk guys recommend an average interval of 5,000 miles. Of course, if you have an older car with high miles, the various components that keep the oil separated from the combustion process (rings, valve guides and seals) may be worn and the oil will get contaminated more quickly.

An interval of 3,000 might be better. Of course, in older vehicles with potential leaks, or partial oil combustion, it is a good idea to check the oil level frequently. Users of synthetic oil can enjoy a longer oil change interval.

This is because the molecules in synthetic oils are all similar in size and their molecule chains are less prone to premature breakdown. The interval for synthetic users can be from 7,500 to 10,000. The offset is that synthetic oils cost more.

Oil changes can be done by virtually any shop. If your car is under warranty, you may have to get the oil change done by the dealer, which is the most expensive option. However, I would read the warranty carefully regarding oil changes.

Many warranties these days do not specifically require that this service be performed by the dealer.In that event, any qualified shop or independent mechanic (ASE certified) can perform this service. I would avoid "chain" oil change places that commonly employ non-certified or otherwise unqualified people.

Every 3000 miles is typical. If you have a newer car and run sythetic oil you could probably get away with 4000+ miles. Some newer cars also have oil monitors that tell you how clean your oil is, and when to change it and you can go off of that.

The best places are places that have the AAA approved logo. Car repair places work hard to keep that approval, and most likely won't screw you over. I've never had trouble with Midas.

They also offer a complementary (#) point inspection, that some places don't. Their customer service is superb! If I didn't get a discount now, and if Hubby didn't do most of our oil changes I would go to only to Midas.

They have never treated me wrong. At Valvoline it takes 10 minutes tops.

You should follow the manufactures recommendation, as to what oil to use, and how often it should be changed. Removing contaminants more frequently will not hurt, but is unnecessary. Use whatever full synthetic they recommend, with a filter designed for that oil.

If you want to know specifically to your car, you can have your oil tested for about $25.00, and know for sure how often you need to replace the synthetic for your actual driving conditions. The best place to have it changed is to do it yourself. Replace the drain plug with a magnetic drain plug, and look into placing a magnet on the outside of your metal oil filter to hold metallic particles that may be in suspension of the oil.

The filter, and filter magnet, can be reused. The old filter is thrown out with the Particulates. youtube.com/watch?v=YlLY3AQkNGQ.

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