Engine oil lubricates, cools and cleans the inside of the engine. Over time it breaks down and collects contaminants, and old oil can no longer protect the engine properly.
The right interval depends on your car, the oil type and how you drive, so the safest guide is your owner manual and the advice of a mechanic who has seen your car.
Why heat and traffic matter
High temperatures thin the oil and speed up its breakdown. Stop-start traffic, short trips and long idling in summer keep the engine hot without moving much air through the radiator, which is hard on the oil. Many manufacturers list this kind of driving as severe service, with shorter intervals than normal driving.
What affects the interval
- The oil type: synthetic generally lasts longer than mineral oil
- The engine: turbocharged and high-performance engines are harder on oil
- The driving style: city traffic, towing and heavy loads shorten oil life
- The age and condition of the engine
Signs your oil needs attention
- The oil on the dipstick looks very dark, thick or gritty
- The oil level drops between services
- The oil pressure or engine warning light comes on
- The engine sounds louder or rougher than usual
- You are past the service interval in the manual or the service sticker
Do not forget the filter
The oil filter traps debris from the oil. It should be replaced with the oil, because a clogged or old filter reduces how well the new oil can do its job.
What to do
Check the oil level regularly with the car parked on level ground and the engine switched off for a few minutes. If you are unsure which oil your car needs or when it is due, call or WhatsApp the workshop with the car model and mileage, and we will advise.