Routine oil changes are one of the best ways you can maintain the efficiency and performance of your Mitsubishi. But how long can you wait, exactly, before scheduling one? If you're unsure how long you can go between oil changes, read this guide to learn more about the recommended interval and other helpful tips for changing your oil.
How Often You Should Change Your Oil
In most modern vehicles, you can go about 7,500 miles or six months in between oil changes. That's the recommended maintenance schedule for many auto manufacturers, including Mitsubishi. Many Mitsubishi owners in Boardman, Ohio, choose to schedule an oil change with a tire rotation, combining the two routine maintenance tasks for convenience.
However, there are factors that can impact the recommended oil change interval for your vehicle. If you have a new vehicle, for example, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule so you don't void your warranty coverage. You can find your car's maintenance timeline, including the recommended oil change interval, in the owner's manual.
If your vehicle no longer has active warranties, it's still best to follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule to ensure your car continues to perform optimally. In some cases, you may even want to schedule more frequent oil changes. Conditions that can make frequent oil changes necessary for drivers in Youngstown, Ohio, include:
- Frequent off-roading on muddy or gravel roads.
- Towing heavy loads for long distances.
- Driving or racing the car on a track.
- Making short trips under 5 miles in normal weather or trips under 10 miles in freezing conditions.
When in doubt about how often to change your oil, you can always bring your car to our certified service center. At Boardman Mitsubishi, our experienced technicians can inspect your car's oil level and recommend the proper service intervals for your Mitsubishi.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
Regular oil changes can keep your vehicle performing in peak condition and save you money (and headaches) down the road. The benefits of routine oil changes include:
Cleans and Lubricates the Engine
Routine oil changes are necessary to keep the engine clean and lubricated. The engine can collect dirt and debris, creating sludge that builds up over time. Oil absorbs this sludge so your engine can stay clean and continue performing its best. Likewise, fresh oil keeps the engine components lubricated to reduce heat and friction. Old oil may cause those parts to wear more quickly, significantly impacting the life of the engine. Routine oil changes keep the engine from overheating and extend its life span.
Improves Gas Mileage
Who doesn't want to spend less money filling up on gas? Regular oil changes can help you save money by improving your vehicle's gas mileage. Since old oil lubricates the engine less effectively, it uses more fuel to run. When you change the oil, the engine can run more efficiently, improving your Mitsubishi's fuel economy and helping you put money back into your pocket.
Increases Longevity and Resale Value
When you follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including routine oil changes, you can increase the longevity and resale value of your Mitsubishi. Oil changes protect the engine by preventing components from overworking and wearing quickly. As a result, your vehicle has a better chance of performing at a high level for many years and thousands of miles. Plus, when you go to sell or trade in your vehicle, you'll likely have a higher resale value if you've kept up with recommended maintenance.
What Type of Oil To Use in Your Vehicle
Similar to the oil change interval, the type of oil you should use in your vehicle depends on what car you drive. Always check the owner's manual to see the recommended oil for your specific vehicle. The manual will tell you the recommended oil viscosity, or thickness, to use in your car.
If you're still unsure what type of oil to use, our certified technicians can recommend the best kind to use in your Mitsubishi. The types of oil include:
- Conventional motor oil: One of the most common oil types, conventional motor oil contains additives to remove debris and sludge from the engine. It's a cost-effective option for many vehicles.
- Full synthetic motor oil: This type of motor oil has a higher viscosity level and additional compounds to improve a vehicle's performance. Some vehicles, including those that tow heavy loads or operate in extreme weather, may benefit from this type of oil, though it's usually the most expensive.
- Synthetic blend motor oil: Many Boardman-area drivers choose synthetic blend motor oil because it combines the properties of synthetic and conventional oils. It provides enhanced engine protection without the higher costs of full synthetic oil.
- High-mileage motor oil: If you drive an older vehicle with 75,000 miles or more, you may benefit from using high-mileage motor oil. It can help to prevent leaks and reduce oil consumption to extend the engine's life span.
Are Longer-Life Oils Worth the Cost?
Extended-life and synthetic oils may safely allow you to go longer between oil changes. Usually, these oils last for 10,000 to 12,000 miles. Some new vehicles specifically require you to use synthetic oil. If you drive a newer vehicle that only uses synthetic oil, you cannot use conventional oil instead.
If you do have the choice, consider the benefits and costs of using premium or synthetic oils. They can provide superior engine protection with the added convenience of going longer between oil changes, making the higher cost worth it for some drivers. For more information about the best type of oil for your Mitsubishi, speak with our service technicians about your driving habits to learn if synthetic oils may be the right choice. No matter what oil you use, however, you should never go more than one year without changing it.
Schedule an Oil Change in Boardman, Ohio
If it's time for an oil change, make an appointment at Boardman Mitsubishi in Boardman, Ohio. We offer both conventional and synthetic oils from top brands to keep your Mitsubishi running smoothly. Our certified service specialists have extensive experience, and they can work with you to choose the best oil for your car. We make it easy to schedule an oil change online, and we offer quick, efficient service so you can get back on the road and on with your day. Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 833-6450 for more information about oil changes or other routine maintenance for your Mitsubishi. Find us on Facebook at TheBoardmanMitsubishi.
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