Let’s Talk About Oil

The honest answer: it depends!

We have an expression, “Oil is cheaper than metal,” I’ll explain. We all know that oil is used to lubricate the engine components to maximize wear and tear, it also serves transfers heat and helps filter out contaminants from engine operation.

Traditionally, cars were recommended for an oil change every 3,000 miles or so. However, this all depends on the type of oil your car requires and your engine. Be sure to stay in the know about when your car needs an oil change. 

If your car’s manufacturers recommend synthetic oil, you can go anywhere between 5,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Sometimes even lasting as long as 15,000 miles, depending on the blend. 

Synthetic oil is highly refined, and it typically lasts much longer than conventional oil. Synthetic oil is often used on high performance vehicles because it tends to allow for better engine performance. 

First, let’s address why we change the oil. It’s for two reasons, one is that components in engine oil break down from the heat and mechanical operation of the engine. Second, oil acts as a carrier to remove the waste or byproducts of combustion from the engine itself, and trap it in the filter. During the process, small particles don’t get filtered out, and oil becomes “dirty”.

I think the 15,000-mile interval is fine when a car is newer, and the engine has no wear or byproducts of combustion to contaminate the oil. But in my experience, older engines and engines with higher mileage, contaminate the oil quicker due to wear. So we’ve shortened up the intervals. I know it works as we have vehicles with 200,000 to 400,000 miles on them, original engine and transmission. 

Our goal is  to save you money, not spend it . Which is why each and every car that we service gets a free  Courtesy Maintenance Inspection  during its first visit, and every
subsequent visit.

Our goal is to let you know about the small problems, before they become big ones. Right now we have number of customer cars with well over 200,000 miles, and several approaching 300,000! And these cars are not just limping along – most look and drive pretty much the way they came out of the showroom.

At Team Ryan Automotive, we are committed to keeping you safe on the road. Your car’s health is important, but your safety is even more important. Oil change services will help ensure your car’s health and your safety in the long run.  

Have Auto Care Questions? Ask our Experts.

Need to Schedule Your Oil Change Service? Make an Appointment.