You probably know that oil changes are a critical part of routine car maintenance, but how often should you change your oil if you want to protect your investment for the years to come? Well, experts used to suggest completing oil changes every 3,000 miles, but times have changed. Recent advances in engine technology and oil production have given drivers some leeway. Nowadays, most vehicles can last about 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes.

In any event, the best way to protect your vehicle over the long term is to follow the recommendations laid out in your owner's manual! Read on to learn more about oil change frequency and the benefits of this small but extremely important service.

Oil Change Frequency: Severe Service

The oil change interval given above is a broad guideline; certain vehicles will need more frequent oil changes, especially if they're used for any of the following activities:

• Off-roading around Redlands
• Work-related tasks
• Motorsports
• Towing and hauling

How often should you change your oil if you engage in any of these activities? For older vehicles, the manufacturer may provide “severe service” recommendations in the owner's manual. Newer vehicles generally use electronic oil life monitors to tell you when you're due for service. Since these tools automatically account for excessive wear caused by your driving habits, you can continue to follow the recommendations they provide without making any changes or adjustments.

Oil Change Frequency: Oil Loss

You've got a sense of how often to change the oil in a car, but your work isn't done yet. Even if you change your oil on schedule, you might occasionally find that the oil level in your vehicle is lower than expected. This is because all vehicles consume or lose motor oil in the course of normal usage. Moreover, the rate of loss can vary widely. Some vehicles will lose a quart or so of oil every 6,000 miles. Others might lose a quart in 1,000 miles—or even less. This is why it's so important to check your oil level on a regular basis. If the level is a little low when you're performing an inspection, just add more. Just make sure to work slowly and check the level as you go, and be careful not to overfill.

If you ever receive a warning that your vehicle is low on oil, pull over at the earliest opportunity, and don't drive until you can add more oil! Without enough oil, you won't be able to achieve the oil pressure needed to protect your engine—and you may experience accelerated or even catastrophic wear.

When to Check Your Car's Oil Level

Generally, it's a good idea to check your oil level at least once a month to help catch any oil leaks, which can be detrimental to your car's engine. When you check the level, be sure to examine the color and consistency of the oil itself. If you see metal particles within the oil, or something doesn't seem quite right, schedule a service appointment at Metro Hyundai as soon as possible.

What Happens When Your Car's Oil Isn't Changed?

Your car's engine depends on fresh, clean oil to operate efficiently. Oil lubricates the moving parts within your car's engine, preventing friction and overheating. Oil also collects debris as it moves through the engine and carries it to the oil filter. With time, the filter and the oil itself become riddled with contaminants and need to be replaced. When you neglect oil changes in your car, you'll eventually notice the following issues and red flags:

• Check engine and/or oil change lights are illuminated
• Knocking sound coming from the engine
• Dark and dirty oil
• Smoke emitting from the exhaust pipe
• Engine overheating

Oil Change Frequency: Final Considerations

There are some things every San Bernardino driver should know about oil changes for cars and SUVs. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure your vehicle is well cared for:

• Even if you drive infrequently, you should still complete regular oil changes. Oil breaks down, even if it's not constantly circulating through the engine.
• Be sure to get your oil filter changed as well. If you're doing a DIY oil and filter change, you can get what you need from our parts department.
• Not sure if you should be using conventional oil or synthetic oil? Check your owner's manual for recommendations or ask one of our service technicians.

Schedule an Oil Change at Metro Hyundai

Feel more comfortable leaving a Hyundai oil change to the professionals? We can help! We offer a rotating selection of service coupons to Highland drivers to make caring for your vehicle that much easier and affordable. Contact us online or call us at with any questions about oil change frequency or other routine maintenances like tire rotation or checking brake fluid.