Oil change advice is all over the place, from every 3,000 miles to once a year. The right answer for your car is in your owner's manual, and it often depends on how and where you drive.
Start with your owner's manual
Most manuals list two maintenance schedules: a normal one and a severe one. Many drivers assume they're normal. In South Florida, a lot of everyday driving actually fits the severe description.
What usually counts as severe service
Check your manual for the exact list, but severe conditions commonly include:
- Mostly short trips, where the engine doesn't fully warm up
- Lots of stop-and-go traffic
- Driving in very hot weather
- Long periods of idling
- Towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads
- Dusty or sandy roads
If several of those sound like your week, follow the severe schedule. Commuting on I-95 or Okeechobee Boulevard in July checks a few boxes.
Use the oil life monitor if you have one
Many newer cars have an oil life monitor that calculates when the oil is due based on how you actually drive. It's usually more accurate than a mileage sticker. Change the oil when it says to, and reset it after every oil change.
Use the right oil
Your engine is designed for a specific oil grade, like 0W-20 or 5W-30. Using the wrong one can affect protection and fuel economy. Your manual, and often the oil cap, tells you which grade to use.
Check your oil between changes
Some engines use a little oil between changes. Checking the dipstick once a month takes a minute and can catch a low level before it causes damage. If the oil pressure warning light ever comes on, stop driving and call a mechanic.
Oil changes without the waiting room
We change your oil in your driveway or office parking lot, using the grade your manufacturer calls for. While we're there, we check your fluids, tire pressure, belts and hoses.