How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
Summer’s here, and if you’re looking for ways to give your Toyota a quick tune-up, one of the best things you can do is have its oil changed. How often should you change your oil? The specific number will vary depending on the vehicle you drive and your driving habits, but the general recommendation is anywhere between 7500 and 10,000 miles between oil changes.
Take a look at our guide on everything you need to know about changing your oil. Then, whenever your vehicle needs an oil change, schedule service at Toyota of Brookhaven!
Factors That Affect Your Oil Change Frequency
The general recommendation for many new vehicles is to have their oil changed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, as we mentioned earlier, the specific number for how long your vehicle can go between oil changes depends on several factors. The type of Toyota vehicle you drive will play a role in how long you can go between oil changes. Your driving habits will also impact your recommended oil change frequency.
Here are some driving habits that may have you changing your oil sooner than recommended:
- Off-road driving
- Commercial/business driving
- High-speed racing
- Heavy-duty towing
Whether you want to take the off-road trails this summer or head up to the mountains, driving off the main roads means that you’ll need to change your oil sooner than expected. If that’s the case, you can easily schedule service with Toyota of Brookhaven online at a time that works with your schedule.
What If You Don’t Change Your Oil?
What does oil do? The oil in your engine lubricates its many moving parts, and this helps your engine function efficiently while reducing friction. Your engine oil also helps keep your engine clean by filtering out dirt and debris that can get inside. Over time, your oil becomes dirty and inefficient, which is why it needs to be changed regularly.
What happens if you don’t change your oil? Here are some of the consequences that can arise from avoiding oil changes:
- Check engine can turn on
- Knocking sounds from the engine
- Dark and dirty oil
- Smoke from the exhaust pipe
- Overheating engine
One of the biggest consequences that can come from neglecting oil changes is a decline in the quality of your vehicle’s performance. Not to mention, avoiding oil changes for too long can make your vehicle unsafe to drive. Avoid these negative consequences, have your oil changed at Toyota of Brookhaven, and make service more affordable with our ongoing service specials.
Other Oil Change Tips & Advice
Now that you have a better idea of how often you should be changing your oil, let’s take a look at some other helpful tips and information about oil changes that every driver should know:
- Check your oil once a month to keep an eye on whether you need to have it changed sooner rather than later.
- Have your oil changed at least two times a year. Oil still breaks down even if you don’t drive your vehicle often.
- Have your oil filter changed at the same time you change your oil. Have our experts take care of it, or do it yourself if that’s your preference. If you’re a DIY driver, you can easily order parts online from our parts store.
- Make sure you know what kind of oil your vehicle needs. You can always consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure what kind of oil you need to put in your vehicle.
Schedule an Oil Change at Toyota of Brookhaven
Get ready for those weekend road trips this summer by scheduling an oil change at Toyota of Brookhaven. Contact us to see what time works for you, and let us help you get out on the roads this summer with confidence!