Let’s Talk About Oil

June 24, 2022
Let’s Talk About Oil
a man is standing under a car on a lift in a garage

When should I change my 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. 

Here’s Why

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 For You and Your Car

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.


By Dan Ryan May 21, 2025
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
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