How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

The oil change is one of the most important maintenance services for any car, so how often should you really change your oil? The average oil change frequency for La Crosse, WI and Rochester, MN drivers is around 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Some drivers even reach 10,000 or so miles in between visits! So, how can you figure out the right oil change frequency for your vehicle? Read on for some service tips, and feel free to ask our technicians for personalized recommendations at Dahl Chevrolet Winona!

What’s the Recommended Oil Change Frequency? 

Back in the day, Onalaska, WI needed oil changes every 3,000 miles or so. But now, some drivers can go three times as long between oil changes! Why? Modern cars are more efficient and modern oil formulations are longer lasting, resulting in longer and longer oil change intervals.

So, what’s your ideal oil change frequency? Many new cars are equipped with an oil life monitoring system that tells you exactly when it’s time to schedule your next service. You can also check your owner’s manual or ask our technicians. While most drivers will schedule an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, this can vary depending on your driving habits.

What Factors Influence Your Oil Change Frequency? 

• Level of engine wear: Certain activities are harder on an engine: stop-and-go driving, frequent short trips, towing, racing, and traveling in extreme weather. The harder you are on your engine, the more frequently you’ll need to schedule maintenance.
• Type of engine oil: Full synthetic oil lasts longer in between your oil changes, because it’s formulated with longevity and stability in mind. Conventional oil is cheaper, but you’ll need to schedule services more often. Check your owner’s manual or ask our techs about the right option for you.
• Quality of the engine oil: Beyond the synthetic vs. conventional debate, different engines require different types of oil. If you use the wrong type of oil for your car, your engine will break the oil down faster – leading to more frequent services.

Schedule Your Next Service with Dahl Chevrolet Winona

Are you ready to schedule your next service visit? Want to know how often should you change your oil? The service team at Dahl Chevrolet Winona is here to help! Contact us with your maintenance questions and visit our service center in Winona for all of your automotive needs.