How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

2024 Subaru Outback with mud on front and sides parked near mountains

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We’re sure you’re anxiously waiting to get your Subaru out of your garage this summer, but when was the last time you had the oil changed? After all, oil can still break down even if you don’t drive your vehicle that often in the winter. How often should you change your oil? Many experts recommend changing the oil in your vehicle every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, but the number can vary depending on many things. 

Learn everything you need to know about oil changes with the service team at Tameron Subaru. We’ll cover how often you should be changing your oil and so much more, so you can get your Subaru ready for those summer adventures!

Driving Habits That Affect Your Oil Change Frequency

Several factors determine how often you’ll need to change your oil this summer. One of them is the type of Subaru you drive, as some models may require synthetic oil or synthetic blends compared to conventional oil. Other factors that play a role in how often you’ll need to change your oil is the type of driving habits you have.

If you plan on doing any of the following kinds of driving this summer, you may need to change your oil more frequently than the standard recommendation:

  • Off-road driving
  • Commercial/business driving
  • High-speed racing
  • Heavy-duty towing

What If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

One of the reasons oil changes are necessary is because oil can get dirty and become inefficient over time. Oil filters out dirt and other particles that get inside the engine, keeping it clean. But the more you drive your vehicle, the more your oil becomes clogged with too much dirt and debris. Oil also lubricates your engine’s moving parts, but when it becomes too dirty and ineffective, your engine’s moving parts may start to experience more friction, which can lead to mechanical problems.

What happens when you don’t change your oil this summer? Here are some things that you can experience if you don’t change your oil for too long:

  • Check engine can turn on
  • Knocking sounds from the engine
  • Dark and dirty oil
  • Smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Overheating engine

Other Helpful Oil Change Information & Tips

What else should you know about oil changes to keep your vehicle running smoothly this summer? Here are some helpful tips relating to oil changes that can help you stay on top of your vehicle’s condition:

  • Check your oil levels every month. This way, you can keep an eye out for the condition and level of your oil.
  • Schedule an oil change at least two times a year. As mentioned earlier, oil breaks down even if you don’t drive your car that often. That’s why you want to schedule an oil change at a minimum of two times a year.
  • Know what kind of oil your vehicle requires. Different vehicles require different types of oil, so you’ll want to check your owner’s manual to see what kind of oil your vehicle needs. You can also consult our service team at Tameron Subaru. 
  • Replace your oil filter at the same time you have your oil changed. Our team can handle this for you, but if you prefer to do it yourself, you can find an oil filter when you shop at our parts store online.

Schedule an Oil Change at Tameron Subaru This Summer

Don’t put off your oil change any longer! Contact us to schedule an oil change and better prepare your Subaru for those long summer cruises near the water and weekend road trips.