Honda Oil Change Service in San Antonio, TX

How Often Should Oil Be Changed?

Once upon a time there was the "every 3,000 miles or three months." However, this rule is outdated because of advances in both engines and oil. Many automakers have oil-change intervals at 7,500 or as high as 10,000 miles and six or 12 months. Actually, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The answer that applies to you depends on the type of vehicle you have. Even with Honda vehicles, the answer can vary. With the Honda Accord, for example, the recommendation is to change the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every six to twelve months. What applies to your vehicle can be found right in your glove box. One recommendation is to check your oil every other gas fill-up to see if it needs to be changed. Check the owner's manual and follow the automaker's recommendations. Some newer cars have electronic oil monitors and don't have a traditional dipstick for self-inspection. The amount of oil left in some engines is really low by the time the alert comes on from the monitor. You don't have to be an avid driver to worry about oil changes on a regular basis. Even if you only drive on weekends or occasionally, oil can age. It is a good idea to change it at the recommended intervals.

How Do You Tell If Oil Needs to Be Changed?

Many drivers rely on mileage as a gauge of when their oil needs to be replaced. As discussed above, other factors come into play. Look for the following signs suggesting it's time to replace or change oil:

• The check engine light comes on
• You hear engine noise or knocking
• There's an oil smell inside the car
• You notice dirty or dark oil
• You notice smoke coming out of your exhaust system instead of a clear vapor