Wondering when to do oil changes and what type of oil to use?  These questions have a very simple answer: Your car’s manual should detail the type and weight of oil that should be used in your car. It should also detail how far you vehicle should travel between oil changes AND how the much the maximum time should be. It will also likely list shorter times and mileages for severe driving cycles. These typically include city driving, high speed driving, trailer towing, mountain driving and similar situations that are harder on engines.

If you are unsure of when to change after reading this information, a rule of thumb is that more often is better than not often enough. Really serious car nuts have their oil chemically analyzed and many newer cars have oil service monitors that tell the driver when a change is due. You can always call the car dealer for advice.

The oil requirements may include specific brands of oil, their service ratings, their weight as well whether they are natural or synthetic. Always get an oil at or higher than the service rating listed in the manual. These oil ratings are found on the top of the can or on the label of the container. The weight of the oil is a measure of viscosity or how well it flows in various temperatures. This is usually expressed as 10W – 30W or 5W – 40W to give two examples. The lower the number, the better the oil flows and lubricates in cold temperatures. The higher the number the better the oil lubricates the engine in high temperatures. Some new synthetic oils are rated as highly as 0W – 40W. Amazing technology.

I prefer the synthetic oils to the natural refined oils as they reduce engine wear and may enable you to increase the interval between oil changes.

ALWAYS change the oil filter when you change the oil. Use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers’) quality filters. Avoid the cheap discount type – the savings is not worth it. Enough said.

Changing your own oil is a relatively simple procedure for most cars and if you research how to do it, you can save some money. Quick lube and oil change chains can also be a cheaper way to get the job done if you do not want to dirty your hands.

Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine and an oil change is a relatively cheap way of keeping it alive.