When it comes to keeping your vehicle running smoothly, few things are as important as getting a regular oil change at your SUV dealer. Fresh oil lubricates and cools the engine and prevents premature wear and tear on components. You should know how often to change the oil to optimize engine performance.
How Often Should You Get an Oil Change From Your SUV Dealer?
Your owner’s manual outlines the best intervals for changing the SUV’s oil based on its make, model, engine type, typical operating temperatures, and expected driving conditions. Thanks to advancements in synthetic oil chemistry and engine technologies, most modern SUVs can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles before requiring fresh oil.
If you have an older SUV, you may need to change the oil every 3,000 miles. It’s best to check your owner’s manual and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendation. You should also pay attention to other factors that can shorten your oil’s life, requiring you to get it changed sooner than recommended.
Consider Factors That Affect Oil Life
Type of Engine Oil
Conventional motor oil used in older SUVs needs changing more often, usually around 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This is because the oil degrades faster due to the use of basic petroleum bases without advanced additives.
Synthetic blends last longer, while fully synthetic motor oil is the most durable and can last 10,000 miles between changes. For excellent engine performance, use the oil type specified in your owner’s manual.
Climatic Factors
Driving in extreme heat can cause your motor oil to lose viscosity and degrade faster. Excessive cold can also take a toll by allowing unburned fuel and condensed water to contaminate the oil. If you frequently drive in extreme weather, you may need to change your oil sooner than recommended.
Driving Habits
Habits like extensive idling, taking lots of short trips, and frequent city driving prevent the engine and oil from reaching optimal operating temperatures. This allows fuel and moisture contamination in the oil. Towing and carrying heavy loads can also shorten your oil’s life, forcing you to change the oil more regularly.
Check for Signs of Oil Degradation
Modern SUVs have oil monitoring systems that use sensors and computer data to detect motor oil conditions. These systems use factors like operating temperatures, RPM, mileage, engine load, and oil viscosity to determine the best oil service interval. Once the oil life light comes on, you should get fresh oil immediately.
There is no set rule outlining the perfect time to change your SUV’s oil. Besides checking your owner’s manual, watch out for the warning signs of oil degradation and contact Santa Monica SUVs to schedule an oil service for your vehicle.
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