Exactly how often you need to change your oil differs from vehicle to vehicle. Many automakers recommend getting an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. You will need to check your car’s manual for the exact specifics.
Another thing that differs from vehicle to vehicle is the types of oil that you need. Which oil your vehicle needs depends on several factors. Two of them are the engine’s model and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
But you should also choose your oil type based on your driving habits, engine age, and more. So how can you know which oil is the right choice? Read on to learn more.
Four Types of Oil
At the basic level, there are four types of motor oil. These include full synthetic, synthetic blend, high-mileage, and conventional oil.
Full Synthetic Oil
Full synthetic oil is perhaps the most powerful type of oil available. It’s best for vehicles that require high levels of lubrication and performance. It’s also suitable for older engines, as it fights against harmful oil sludge build-up.
Other strengths include resisting oxidation, resisting thermal breakdown, and providing higher viscosity. So super hot summers or frigid winters won’t cause harm to a vehicle with this oil.
But vehicle owners pay for this power level at a price several times more than regular oil. So you need to ask your technician if full synthetic oil is really the right choice for your car. If it is, synthetic oil can pay for itself because of what you save on maintenance.
Synthetic Blend Oil
If full synthetic oil is too expensive, try synthetic blend oil. It has many full synthetic oil characteristics but a much lower price. It’s a mix of conventional and synthetic oils with some additives.
This blend is becoming increasingly popular because of its good middle ground. Drivers can ease into synthetic oils before they’re ready to pay for the real thing.
High-Mileage Oil
You should use high-mileage oil if you have an older car with a mileage close to 80,000. It has additives and ingredients that help take care of older engines. As a result, this oil can minimize leaks, reduce oil consumption, and reduce smoke and emissions.
Conventional Oil
Most cars use conventional oil. It comes from recently pumped and newly refined crude oil. It’s best for light-duty, late-model vehicles with a simple engine design and low mileage.
Vehicle Care in Fredericksburg
So make sure to research the types of oil you’re using in your vehicle before you perform an oil change. It may be that you’re spending much more than necessary. Or maybe you’re not spending enough.
If you’re not sure, try to talk with experts like us. We also provide vehicle maintenance and repair services to drivers in Fredericksburg, VA. And you can trust that our services will go above and beyond.
Visit us at the address on this page.