How Often Should You Change Your Oil

Schedule Oil Change

An oil change is an important part of vehicle maintenance for drivers in Avon, Indianapolis, and Plainfield. Our experienced service department at Andy Mohr Toyota emphasizes having oil changes completed so your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

But you might be asking how often you should change your oil. In general, if your car takes conventional oil, you should change it every 5,000 miles. If it takes synthetic oil, it should be changed every 10,000 miles.

Aside from this guideline, a few things should always be taken into consideration when it comes to finding your vehicle’s oil change interval. We’re here to help.

 

Oil Change Intervals
Conventional Oil: Every 5,000 miles	Synthetic Oil: Every 10,000 miles

 

Trust Your Owner’s Manual 

Your owner’s manual exists for a reason. While you might not have cracked it open in a while, the manual’s maintenance section is a valuable tool when it comes to understanding and caring for your vehicle. Your manual can provide oil change frequency information based on driving conditions, often classified as normal, severe, or special. Your dashboard lights can also show you when oil is low.

If you do a lot of severe stop-and-go driving, your vehicle might require an oil change more often. But if most of your driving is on the highway, it’s possible that you don’t need an oil change as often. Make sure to read your manual to determine which description most closely matches your driving habits.

Keep an Eye on Available Oil Monitoring Technology

Over the last few years, many automakers have installed oil life monitors in vehicles to aid in tracking maintenance. Basic systems are more focused on predetermined mileage ranges, and a light will come on letting you know when it’s time to change the oil.

More advanced systems take information from sensors throughout your car to predict how often your oil should be changed. The best part? You’re no longer guessing when you need an oil change.

It’s important to not think too much of the mantra of every 5,000 miles if you own a vehicle that has this technology, as these systems can provide more customized feedback of your engine’s environment. Oil-monitoring technology is just one piece of the puzzle. Ask your service advisor if you have any questions about your vehicle’s system.

Symptoms of Low Engine Oil 

If you don’t know when your last oil change was, there are some things you can keep an eye out for when driving. It’s a good idea to stay on top of checking the oil at least once a month. If your vehicle has a dipstick, remove it, wipe it off, put it back in, then check it again. If the oil is an amber color, you’re in good shape. But if it’s thick and dark, it’s time to change the oil.

Loud engine noise can also be a sign that an oil change is necessary. When oil is clean, it keeps your engine quiet. But when the fluid starts to break down, the engine can become louder due to a lack of lubrication. If you’ve noticed a change in oil color or you’re experiencing loud engine noises, your local auto technician can help you. 

Schedule an Oil Change Today

An oil change is a routine service that should be performed to keep your car in tip-top shape. The skilled team at Andy Mohr Toyota can handle your oil change and get you back on the roads of Avon, Indianapolis, and Plainfield as soon as possible. Contact our service team today to schedule an appointment. And don’t forget to check out our oil change coupons to save on your next visit!