When Should You Get an Oil Change on a New Car?
I’ll never forget the time I drove my brand-new car off the lot and didn’t think twice about an oil change. After all, it was new! But as I learned the hard way, even new cars need regular oil changes. Ignoring this essential maintenance can lead to a host of problems, including decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and even engine failure.
So, when should you get an oil change on a new car? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of oil your car uses and the driving conditions you typically encounter. However, a good rule of thumb is to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. If you drive in extreme conditions, such as towing heavy loads or frequent stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change your oil more often.
New Car Maintenance Schedule
Most new cars come with a recommended maintenance schedule that includes oil changes. Be sure to follow this schedule to keep your car running smoothly. However, if you don’t have the original maintenance schedule, you can consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for advice.
In addition to oil changes, there are other essential maintenance tasks you should perform on your new car, including tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks. By following a regular maintenance schedule, you can help keep your car running well for many years to come.
Why is it Important to Change Oil?
Oil is essential for your car’s engine because it lubricates the moving parts and helps to keep it cool. Over time, oil becomes contaminated with dirt, metal shavings, and other impurities. This contaminated oil can damage your engine and lead to costly repairs.
Changing your oil regularly removes these contaminants and helps to keep your engine running smoothly. It also helps to extend the life of your engine and prevent costly repairs.
What is the Right Type of Oil?
Not all oils are created equal. When choosing oil for your car, it is important to select the right type. The best way to determine the right type of oil for your car is to consult your owner’s manual.
There are two main types of oil: conventional oil and synthetic oil. Conventional oil is less expensive than synthetic oil, but it does not last as long. Synthetic oil is more expensive, but it provides better protection for your engine and can last up to twice as long as conventional oil.
How to Change Oil
Changing your oil is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. However, if you are not comfortable changing your oil, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it done.
Here are the steps on how to change oil:
- Gather your materials. You will need:
- New oil filter
- New oil
- Oil filter wrench
- Funnel
- Oil drain pan
- Rags
- Locate the oil drain plug. The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the oil pan.
- Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug.
- Loosen the oil drain plug. Be careful not to drop the bolt into the oil pan.
- Allow the oil to drain into the oil drain pan.
- Replace the oil drain plug.
- Locate the oil filter.
- Remove the oil filter. Be careful not to spill any oil.
- Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
- Screw on the new oil filter. Do not overtighten.
- Add new oil to the engine. Use the funnel to add the oil to the engine.
- Check the oil level. The oil level should be between the “add” and “full” marks on the dipstick.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for leaks. Look under the car for any leaks.
FAQs
Q: How often should I change my oil?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of oil your car uses and the driving conditions you typically encounter. However, a good rule of thumb is to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. If you drive in extreme conditions, such as towing heavy loads or frequent stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change your oil more often.
Q: What is the best type of oil for my car?
The best way to determine the right type of oil for your car is to consult your owner’s manual. However, most cars require either conventional oil or synthetic oil. Conventional oil is less expensive than synthetic oil, but it does not last as long. Synthetic oil is more expensive, but it provides better protection for your engine and can last up to twice as long as conventional oil.
Q: Can I change my oil myself?
Yes, it is possible to change your oil yourself. However, if you are not comfortable changing your oil, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it done.
Q: How much does an oil change cost?
The cost of an oil change varies depending on the type of oil you use and where you have it done. However, you can expect to pay between $30 and $60 for an oil change.
Conclusion
Changing your oil is an important part of maintaining your car. By following a regular maintenance schedule, you can help keep your car running smoothly for many years to come.
Are you interested in learning more about car maintenance? If so, be sure to check out our other blog posts on the topic.
