When Should I Get My Oil Changed?

March 20th, 2018 by

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Whether you’re the owner of a shiny new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram or a used vehicle of another make and model, getting your oil changed is a crucial step in car maintenance. It’s crucial to know when you should get your oil changed; you’ll want to stick to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for the best results on the road. While the old rule of thumb was to get your oil changed every three months or 3,000 miles, new technologies in the auto space have bumped that up a bit. These days, you can typically get an oil change around 5,000 miles (or longer is your car requires synthetic oil!). Intervals can change slightly depending on your specific vehicle, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for information on how to know when you need your oil changed! Be sure to contact our service department will any further questions after reading our guide.

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Why Do I Need to Follow Recommended Oil Change Intervals?

On top of wondering when you should get an oil change, you may be curious about the “why” behind it all. Oil is the lubricant that prevents excessive friction between the pistons and the inner walls of the housing. If you wait too long to get your oil changed, the oil can run low or get filled with debris. When that happens, excessive engine heating can occur, hindering the performance and efficiency of your vehicle and putting you, your car, and your passengers at risk. Because of this, it’s best to stick to your make and model’s specific maintenance schedule.

How Do I Change My Oil?

After you know when to get an oil change, you may be avoiding heading to the dealership. Or perhaps you’re handy and want to try to change your oil on your own! First things first, you’ll need to gather these supplied:

  • Fresh oil
  • Fresh oil filter and gasket
  • Oil pan
  • Rubber mallet
  • Wrenches and wheel locks
  • Car jack

Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to change your oil! If you would like to change your own oil, be sure to follow these steps:

  1. Choosing the right kind of oil
  2. Preparing supplies and vehicle
  3. Draining oil from the drain plug
  4. Tightening the drain plug
  5. Changing the oil filter
  6. Adding new oil
  7. Making sure the oil level is right

How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

Luckily, getting your oil changed is a pretty quick process! If you rely on a service center, the task typically takes around 45 minutes. If you’re worried about waiting at the dealership, you can schedule your service appointment in advance! At Gunter CDJR Martinsville, you can easily schedule an appointment online for your next oil change, bring your car in, and be back on the road right away!

Schedule Your Oil Change in Ridgeway

After you’ve learned when to get your oil changed, it’s time to schedule your next service appointment! While some people enjoy changing their car’s oil themselves, many prefer the convenience, speed, and professionalism of a certified service center.  And before you do, make sure to check out our special programs for any deals we’re currently running. Be sure to contact us with any questions about Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram oil changes. We’ll help with everything from oil changes, to Jeep Wrangler interior features, to overheating issues, to learning how to be more fuel-efficient.

Our Service Specials

ROAD TRIP SPECIAL

$119.95

ROAD TRIP SPECIAL

FULL SYN OIL & FILTER - Up to 6 quarts, TIRE ROTATION, ALIGNMENT CHECK, BATTERY HEALTH CHECK, MULTI-POINT INSPECTION, TOP OFF FLUIDS, ADJUST TIRE PRESSURE

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL

$15.00 OFF

ANY OIL CHANGE

WITH TIRE ROTATION

A/C SERVICE SPECIAL

20% OFF

AIR CONDITIONING

SERVICE OR REPAIR

RECOMMENDED SERVICES

20% Off Previously Recommended Services

(up to $200)

Diesel Services

20% Off Diesel Services (up to $200)

4 Wheel Alignment

Synthetic Oil Change

$15 off full synthetic oil and filter change

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