When you get your oil changed, they put that little sticker on your windshield to remind you when it’s time to get your next. They always set the reminders to 3,000 miles or 3 months.  3,000 miles used to be the standard, but they’re making cars better than ever now. Do you really have to have an every 3,000 miles?

Most automakers now recommend getting an oil change every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. However, they recommend oil changes every 3,000 miles or 3 months if you drive in “severe” conditions.What do they mean by “severe” driving? Hot, cold, dusty, and ocean-side environments, towing a trailer, making many short trips and city driving are all considered “severe” conditions. That’s a large percentage of the drivers out there!

I agree with those who say that overmaintaining your car is a waste of money, but oil changes are pretty cheap. You should be able to get your oil changed for about $25. It’s certainly worth an extra $50 per year if you drive under any of these “severe” conditions. Your other choice is risking under-maintenance, which may mean costly repairs or a shortened useful life. If you take good care of your car, it can easily last 200,000 miles or more. The longer you can make your current car last, the more money you’ll keep. Imagine paying off your car and then continuing to make that “payment” into a savings account. You’d be able to pay for your next car with cash!

Some of us don’t get oil changes as often as we should because it’s inconvenient. But an oil change should take less than an hour if you go when the shop isn’t busy. Since an oil change is such a simple matter, every repair shop does them. You can get an oil change from your mechanic, your car dealership, or your local WalMart. If you can combine this chore with shopping for instance, you’ll save time. There are even specialty shops that will guarantee to have you out in less than an hour! And many shops offer pleasant and convenient waiting areas. Many make the wait time seem shorter with amenties like coffee and snacks and free wi-fi.

I recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles for most cars. It’s cheap, simple and very smart. So pick a shop and get into the habit. When your car has 200,000 miles and is still going, you’ll be glad you did.

New Cars Montclair, Orange County Ford Dealer, Bay Area Luxury Cars