Oil change intervals vary from car to car. Vehicles 20 years ago were not as fuel efficient as today and required more frequent oil changes. Factors, such as type of oil used, driving conditions, weather elements, and manufacturer’s recommendations, all play a role in determining what’s right for you and your car. Our experience has shown that engines that have the oil and filter changed at least twice a year or within every 3-5,000 miles seem to go the distance. General rule of thumb is vehicles that are driven at least 75% on the highway can have the interval extended towards the higher end of 5,000 miles, where as vehicles that are driven in a city environment with a lot of short trips should have the oil and filter changed more towards the 3,000 mile range. Engines simply work harder when subjected to short, frequent trips with a lot of stop and go traffic, like a city environment would provide. It also depends on whether the oil is conventional or synthetic. Synthetic oil performs better in harsher environments thus allowing the interval to be slightly extended. However, don’t forget that engines by nature of design, can, and do, burn oil and the oil level should be checked at least once a month or every 1,000 miles. However, we do not recommend you only follow the car’s reminder system as they often can go to 8,000 miles before it alerts you to change the oil. We have taken plenty of engines apart that have had a life of 6-8,000 mile intervals and seen nothing but damaging sludge. Oil & filter changes is a cheap alternative when compared to a replacement engines costing several thousands of dollars.

Read Customer Reviews

Learn More About our Services

Wise Auto Clinic Repair and Service Coupons

Schedule an Appointment