Here at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Naples, we field a lot of questions about routine maintenance for the vehicles we sell and service. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions we get about one of the most important maintenance tasks: the oil change.
1. Why is changing my vehicle’s oil important?
If the oil in your vehicle’s engine is doing its job (and it is!), it will trap foreign particles like dust and other gunk. Draining the old oil and putting in new oil keeps your engine lubricated, reduces friction, removes contaminants, and overall just ensures your engine continues to run the way it’s supposed to.
2. How often should I get an oil change?
Most modern vehicles use synthetic oil, which means that the old guidelines of “every 3,000 miles” are outdated. These days, most manufacturers recommend an oil change every 7,500 miles. Some models can go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes, but you should check your owner’s manual for a specific guideline.
3. How long does an oil change service take?
Oil changes typically don’t take that long and can be completed in 30 minutes or less. But your wait time can vary, and the best way to make use of your time is to schedule an appointment beforehand so that you’re in and out to get back to the rest of your schedule instead of waiting around in line.
4. Is an oil change necessary if I haven’t driven many miles since my last one?
Engine oil can deteriorate over time, so even if you haven’t driven many miles, it’s still important to change your oil at regular intervals, usually at least every 6-12 months.
5. What happens if I neglect to change my oil?
You can significantly reduce the lifespan of your vehicle if you neglect oil changes. This can lead to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and costly repairs. And no one wants any of that.
If you’ve got more questions, Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Naples in Naples, FL has the answers. Reach out to us, and we’ll do our dead-level best to help you. We want to see you driving happily (and safely) on the road, content with the service you receive every time you come to our service center. Be sure to check out our rotating options for service specials, too. It’ll save you money!