Green Out of the Potato

The Key Factors in Oil Change Scheduling

Have you heard people say that you need oil changes every three months or 3,000 miles? There’s a reason this recommendation has become standard advice—it’s a good rule of thumb for most drivers. Just don’t cause problems for yourself by assuming it applies equally to every situation. You’ll also need to consider some other factors, such as:

Your Vehicle’s Age

If you’re driving a newer car, you’re in luck—modern engine designs can use oil more efficiently than their older counterparts. Along with this, a vehicle’s ability to use oil decreases over time due to the effects of debris and metal filings. That means you may need oil change service more frequently with an older car, but an engine flush can provide temporary relief.

How You Drive

Are you a severe driver? That doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing anything wrong, just that your driving habits are putting extra strain on your vehicle. Severe driving isn’t rare—everything from driving long-distance at speeds below 50 mph to traveling on dirt roads falls into this category. If this sounds like you, consider getting oil changes at twice the standard recommended rate.

Your Oil Preference

Are you a severe driver? That doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing anything wrong, just that your driving habits are putting extra strain on your vehicle. Severe driving isn’t rare—everything from driving long-distance at speeds below 50 mph to traveling on dirt roads falls into this category. If this sounds like you, consider getting oil changes at twice the standard recommended rate.

To figure out when your Dallas-area vehicle needs an oil change, start with the “standard” three months/3,000 miles. Then, adjust your oil change schedule based on the factors listed above. If you’re having trouble figuring this out, feel free to ask our team members for help!