How Often to Get Oil Changes

You already know that changing your vehicle’s oil is the best way to ensure your engine keeps running smoothly for as long as you own it. But like other Monticello, MN drivers, you may wonder how often to get oil changes. Read on to find out when to change your oil and why it’s important, and don’t miss our money-saving service coupons to help you take care of your vehicle for less.

How Many Miles Should I Go Between Oil Changes?

How long to go between oil changes depends on how you drive your vehicle, the age of your vehicle, and the type of oil you’ve chosen:

• Older cars and those with higher mileage generally benefit from oil changes every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
• New vehicles running on standard engine oil can go 5,000 miles between oil changes, slightly more for select performance cars.
• Vehicles running on synthetic motor oil can go as long as 10,000 miles between oil changes, making it a more efficient, less expensive option in the long run.

Consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate information on how long to go between oil changes. You can also speak to one of our Anoka, MN-area service technicians. Whether you drive a Jeep Compass, a Ford F-150, or some other model entirely, an expert on our team can help!

What Does Engine Oil Do?

Engine oil has several jobs, all important if you want optimal performance:

• Lubrication: Your engine is filled with hundreds of moving parts. Without lubrication, those parts would wear out very quickly.
• Cleaning: The daily drive around Ramsey, MN can be a dusty one in the summer. This dust and dirt settle in your engine and cause excessive wear on all those parts without oil.
• Cooling: Engine oil pulls heat away from your engine, even when you’re idling in Ramsey Traffic. This extra cooling helps keep your vehicle from overheating and your parts from becoming damaged.

What Happens If I Don’t Get an Oil Change?

Your oil is one of the most essential substances in your engine, without it, your moving parts break down, your engine wears out, and the engine itself can seize up – costing you thousands of dollars in repair charges. Since most drivers can easily afford the cost of regular oil changes, there’s no reason to put them off. Plus, you may need to rotate your tires at around the same time!

Should I Get an Oil Change Before a Road Trip?

Drivers often ask us, “Should I get an oil change before a road trip?” Yes, but only if you’re close to hitting your maintenance schedule’s recommended oil change interval. Check out our road trip checklist for more information.

Schedule Your Next Oil Change at Cornerstone Auto

Now that you know how often to get oil changes, be sure to explore our service specials and schedule an appointment with Cornerstone Auto when it’s time for service. How long does an oil change take? Our new Ford Quicklane® in Elk River will have you back on the road in a flash!