Got a question about motor oil? You came to the right place! Jiffy Lube® pioneered the quick-lube industry. Our experts are happy to share their knowledge and experience.
How Long Can You Go Without An Oil Change?
Conventional wisdom once said that oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. But with new automotive technology and new oil formulations, that advice may no longer apply. Today, how long can you go without an oil change largely depends on these three factors:
- The type of car you drive
- Your driving style
- The age of your vehicle
Let’s take a closer look at each.
The Type Of Car You Drive Affects How Often To Change Oil.
Different makes and models have different requirements. Rather than listening to outdated conventional wisdom, check your vehicle owner’s manual. That’s where you’ll find the manufacturer’s answer to how long can you go between oil changes. If you’ve misplaced your owner’s manual, you can ask a Jiffy Lube® technician for expert advice.
What About The Change Oil Indicator Light Or Message?
- Don’t ignore it. When it’s illuminated (or an oil change related message is displayed), your car is sending you a specific message. Get your oil changed as soon as you can, and certainly do it within 100 miles of seeing the light or message.
- Don’t depend solely on the indicator light or message, either. When you reach the specific time/miles interval spelled out in your owner’s manual, it’s a good practice to get your oil changed … even if the Change Oil light or message isn’t on.
Your Driving Style Can Have An Impact Your Oil Change Schedule.
Driving for long miles at a steady speed is not only fun for drivers, it’s better for their cars. Unfortunately, that’s likely not your driving style. If you’re often stuck in stop-and-go traffic or use your car for multiple quick errands each day, you may find your vehicle requires more frequent oil changes.
How Long Can You Go Without An Oil Change When You Drive An Older Car?
The older your car, the more frequent the oil changes. It makes sense. The longer you own your car, the more miles you put on it, and that causes wear and tear. Greater attention to routine maintenance is called for, and that includes oil changes.
How Many Miles You Can Go Over An Oil Change?
We get it. You’re busy, and it seems your budget is already stretched to the limit. You may be wondering how many miles you can go over an oil change because you’d like to put it off until a time that’s more convenient for your schedule and comfortable for your wallet. But please don’t, and here’s why …
Motor oil circulates through the engine, lubricating the moving parts to reduce friction and keep it clean and cool. When you decide to see how many miles you can go over an oil change, you are risking:
- Accelerated engine wear
- Overheating
- Sludge accumulation
- Corrosion
- Oil leaks
So, what about the time and money you were hoping to save? You may find you lose them both by putting off an oil change, because your car may need to be in the shop, undergoing expensive, time-consuming engine repairs.
Less Than An Hour Can Keep You Running Safe And Smooth.
You can expect an oil change to take 20-45 minutes — assuming you visit one of the 2,000 Jiffy Lube® locations nationwide. The pros at Jiffy Lube are geared to handling oil changes efficiently for all types of vehicles. Getting your oil changed regularly, can help save time and money in the long run.
The Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change Is A Smart Investment In Performance.
More than a standard oil change, the Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change is a comprehensive preventive maintenance service. Trained Jiffy Lube technicians will check, change and inspect the essential systems and components of your vehicle. The technicians will also help you select the right motor oil for your car, truck, SUV or minivan, and most Jiffy Lube locations proudly pour quality Pennzoil® products.
Consistent, Timely Maintenance Can Help Keep Your Car In Top Shape.
Your vehicle may run smoother, longer if you make Jiffy Lube your go to for car care.
Read More About It.
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Motor oil isn’t the only fluid service Jiffy Lube provides. Check out our other Fluid Replacement and Exchange Services.
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Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.