Is it Time to Get an Oil Change?

Throughout your vehicle’s lifespan, oil changes will be the most frequent service you have done. While routine, they are still extremely important to your vehicle’s health and lifespan. Regular oil changes on your car or truck keep your vehicle running smoothly but also help expand the lifespan of the vehicle. Melloy Dodge in Albuquerque can get you in, serviced and back on the road in no time at our no appointment Express Lane. But, why do we need to have our vehicle’s oil changed so frequently and what happens if we don’t do it?

Motor oil lubricates and cools hundreds of moving parts to minimize friction. It also protects your engine by keeping dirt and other contaminants from building up and turning into sludge. So, if you do not change your oil regularly, the engine will become too hot and it won’t run as efficiently. Over time, if it is not properly changed, the engine will shut down completely and you’ll have to replace your engine. This is not an easy, nor inexpensive, repair for any vehicle.

Automakers generally recommend having your oil changed between every 5,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the model. It also may depend on how you use your vehicle. If your vehicle experiences extensive idling, lots of stop-and-go traffic, lots of repeated short trips or you tow/haul heavy materials every week, you may want to change your oil every 3000 miles. Additionally, living in a warmer climate where the temperature is more than 90 degrees such as Albuquerque in the Summer, could be another reason to change your oil more frequently. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on oil changes and maintenance.
Even if your vehicle doesn’t fall into any of the above categories over a year, you should get your oil changed every six months at the minimum. If motor oil ages, it loses its effectiveness. This would also be a good time to replace the oil filter.

How else do you know it’s time for an oil change? Well, in the past that little sticker in the corner of your windshield may have been the only indicator. But these days, many vehicles make it easy for drivers to know when it’s time to change the oil with built-in oil life monitors that also monitor temperature and a motorist’s driving habits.

Melloy Dodge’s Express Lane can service all your oil change needs. Visit Melloydodge.com to schedule an appointment. Melloy Dodge is located at 9621 Coors Blvd NW, just north of Paseo Del Norte. Visit our no-appointment needed Express Lane, open Monday-Friday, 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. Make sure to arrive a half an hour before closing time to ensure we can service your vehicle before closing.