How Long Should You Wait Until You Change Your Oil? – A Guide from Schicker Ford of Union, Missouri

Regular oil changes are one of the most important aspects of vehicle maintenance. But how long should you actually wait between oil changes? The answer varies depending on your driving habits, the type of oil used, and your vehicle’s make and model. At Schicker Ford of Union, Missouri, we’re here to help you understand when it’s time to change your oil and how to keep your Ford running smoothly.

Why Oil Changes Matter

Oil acts as the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates the moving parts, prevents excessive friction, and helps keep the engine cool. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at performing these critical tasks. Regular oil changes ensure your engine is well-lubricated, runs efficiently, and avoids costly damage.

Skipping oil changes can result in sludge buildup, engine overheating, and, in the worst-case scenario, engine failure. That’s why it’s essential to stay on top of your oil change schedule.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

The general rule of thumb used to be to change your oil every 3,000 miles or every 3 months. However, this can vary depending on the type of oil you use and your driving conditions.

1. Conventional Oil vs. Synthetic Oil

• Conventional Oil: If you’re using conventional motor oil, most experts recommend changing it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This is especially true if you drive in heavy traffic, extreme temperatures, or make frequent short trips.
• Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oil is designed to last longer and provide better engine protection. With synthetic oil, you can generally go 5,000 to 7,500 miles between changes. Some modern Ford models equipped with advanced engines and synthetic oils can even go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation.

2. Driving Conditions

How you drive plays a big role in determining how often you should change your oil. Here are some driving conditions that may require more frequent oil changes:

• Frequent short trips: If you’re often driving short distances (less than 10 miles at a time), your engine may not get hot enough to burn off contaminants, leading to a faster breakdown of the oil.
• Heavy traffic or stop-and-go driving: Constant acceleration and braking can put extra stress on your engine, making the oil break down more quickly.
• Towing or carrying heavy loads: If you regularly tow a trailer or carry heavy loads, your engine works harder, which can lead to faster oil degradation.
• Extreme temperatures: Driving in extremely hot or cold conditions can affect your oil, requiring more frequent changes.

Signs You Need an Oil Change Sooner

Even if you’re following your recommended oil change schedule, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your oil may need to be changed sooner:

• Check Engine Light: If your “Check Engine” light turns on, it may be an indication that your oil needs attention.
• Loud Engine Noises: If you start hearing knocking or grinding sounds, your oil may be low or dirty.
• Oil Change Warning Light: Many modern vehicles, including Ford models, come with an oil change indicator that will light up when it’s time to change the oil.
• Oil Appears Dark and Gritty: When you check your oil, it should be a clear golden or amber color. If it’s dark and gritty, it’s time for an oil change.

How Schicker Ford of Union, Missouri, Can Help

At Schicker Ford of Union, we offer professional oil change services to help keep your vehicle running in top shape. Our certified technicians use only high-quality oils and filters that meet Ford’s specifications, ensuring optimal performance for your engine. We can also inspect your vehicle during every oil change to catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems.

Schedule Your Oil Change Today!

If you’re unsure when to change your oil, or if it’s been a while since your last oil change, we invite you to visit us at Schicker Ford of Union, Missouri. Our friendly service team can help you determine the right oil change interval for your Ford model and provide expert care to keep your vehicle in excellent condition.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your oil change with us today!

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