How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Not changing your vehicle’s oil regularly runs the risk of damaging your engine. While it used to be recommended that drivers change their oil every 3,000 miles, thanks to improved engine technology, most newer vehicles can go up to 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Of course, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your owner’s manual to ensure more specific numbers on how often you should change your oil. Or, of course, if you have any questions, the Cooley Mazda service team can be of service.

What Happens When Your Car’s Oil Isn’t Changed?

Poor oil change frequency can cause damage to your engine’s moving parts. Oil lubricates all the moving parts of your engine to prevent friction and overheating as you drive through Latham. Oil gets dirty with use, and that debris can cause damage. That debris gathers in the oil and oil filter over time and needs to be replaced. If you haven’t had an oil change in a while, or you can’t remember the last one you had, you might notice these changes in your vehicle:

• Check engine and/or oil change lights are illuminated
• Knocking sound coming from the engine
• Dark and dirty oil
• Smoke emitting from the exhaust pipe
• Engine overheating

How Often You Should Change Your Oil Guidelines

7,500 – 10,000 miles is a wide range for an oil change frequency. This is why it’s best practice to check your owner’s manual. It’s also important to note that if you have different driving habits, you may need to get an oil change more frequently than the average Troy driver. If you do any of these activities, contact our service department and see how often you should change your oil:

• Off-roading
• Commercial use
• Racing
• Heavy towing

More Oil Change Tips

While understanding you need to get your oil changed on a regular basis is important, it isn’t the only fact you should know about oil change frequency. Here are some other things to keep in mind:

• Make sure you know whether your vehicle uses synthetic or conventional oil. Your owner’s manual will have this information.
• Whenever you change your oil, change the oil filter, too. If you change your own oil you can order an OEM oil filter from our parts department.
• If you don’t drive your car much, should still get an oil change at least twice a year. Oil breaks down over time even if your car isn’t being used.

How Often Should I Check My Oil Level?

Checking your oil once a month can help you catch oil leaks and debris. When you check the level, you should also check to see how much debris is in the oil on the dipstick. Check for any small metal particles in the oil, which could be a sign of serious engine issues. Should you find any, or notice the color or consistency looks off, schedule service with our service team in Rensselaer, just a short drive from Albany.

Turn to Cooley Mazda for Oil Changes

When the time comes to change your oil, check out the service specials we offer to help you save more. We can also help you save more on an oil filter at our parts center with rotating parts specials or learn how to reset a check engine light. No matter your automotive need, Cooley Mazda has you covered. Contact us today to learn more! Also be sure to learn more about Mazda CX-9 pricing with our team.