How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

An oil change is one of the key maintenance tasks needed to keep your car, truck, or SUV running smooth and safe on Regina roads. So, how often should you change your oil? The certified service technicians at Standard Motors recommend that you have your car’s oil changed every 16,000 km. That being said, it is a good idea to confirm the oil change schedule for your specific vehicle in your owner’s manual. Learn more about oil changes from the experts in our Service Centre.

Oil Change Intervals

While the rule previously stated that oil changes should be performed every 5,000 km, recent advancements in engine and oil technology allow newer vehicles to be driven 12,000 km to 16,000 km before needing an oil change. Your owner’s manual will have the exact oil change interval for your specific model. There are a few factors, however, that can affect how often your oil will need to be changed. Some of these include:

• Heavy towing
• Off-road driving
• Commercial use
• Racing

If any of the above apply to you, consult the service technicians at Standard Motors. We can help you create an oil change schedule that is the right fit with your driving style.

Oil Change Tips

Most newer vehicles are equipped with an oil level indicator light that will alert you when you are low on oil, but it is a good idea not to rely on the light alone. Knowing when and how often your car needs an oil change will help to keep you safe on the roads in and around Saskatoon. It will also reduce the chance that you’ll be faced with a hefty repair bill due to neglected maintenance service. You should plan on getting an oil change at least twice a year, even if you don’t drive your car every day. Oil viscosity can break down over time, whether your vehicle is being driven or not.

Some other oil change tips to take note of include:

• The oil filter should be replaced whenever the oil is changed. Are you planning on changing your car’s oil yourself? Stop by our Parts Centre to pick up the correct oil filter.
• Check your owner’s manual to find out whether synthetic oil or conventional oil is recommended for your car. Synthetic oil costs a bit more but it is required in some vehicles.

When you have your oil changed at the Standard Motors Service Centre, our technicians will also rotate the tires, inspect the chassis, check all vehicle fluid levels, update technical software, and more.

You Can Count on the Auto Care Experts at Standard Motors

Is your Chevy Traverse or GMC Sierra due for an oil change? Schedule an appointment at Standard Motors. We can handle all of your Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet maintenance and repair needs and get you safely back on Kyle-area roads. We offer a variety of service specials to help you save on oil changes, tire rotations, and more. If you have any questions or would like to learn about how to jump start a car or how often to replace a car battery, please contact our Service Centre.