Q: How often to change oil and oil filter?

asked by on October 13, 2016

Want to make sure my car is prepared for a long healthy life: how often should I change oil and oil filter and what is the best oil for my vehicle's engine?

My car has 152000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Change Oil and Filter $103.58 - $181.08 Get a Quote

In today’s vehicles, the majority of cars are able to go between 5,000-6,000 miles between oil changes depending on the health of the car’s engine and assuming you are using a quality oil. For some, this is a matter of personal preference and peace of mind and they prefer to change it more frequently around 3,000-4,000 miles.

The type of oil for your engine depends largely on the driving conditions and the driving habits of the driver as well as the environment in which the car regularly drives. If the car is subjected to extreme weather conditions such as very cold weather, you will want to use a thinner viscosity oil. Cold weather causes oil to move very slowly which can be crucial on your car’s engine especially when starting first thing in the morning. It is important to use an oil that will flow more freely at colder temperatures.

On the other hand, in extremely hot weather, oil will break down much quicker causing it to lose it’s protective qualities while lubricating moving engine parts. You will want to use a thicker viscosity oil in extremely warm temperatures to ensure the oil is sufficiently thick to coat and lubricate moving engine components properly.

If you need assistance with maintaining your car, I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your home or office to perform an oil change service to be sure you have the proper oil in your car for your situation.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I open the moon roof?
If your Accord is equipped with a moon roof, opening it can provide fresh air, as well as light. Just follow these quick steps: Turn the key to on. Locate the switch on the ceiling. Push the center to tilt...
Clock not working
The clock fuse would need to be checked first. If that is okay, then the clock should be checked to make sure that it has a proper supply of power and grounds. If that is okay, then a replacement clock...
Van overheats
Hello. Yes there are two key things that I recommend you or your technician check. Check the hoses, radiator, and engine block for clogging. A clog in those components will restrict the coolant system from being able to circulate. Also,...
Transmission replacement cost
A complete, re-manufactured transmission for your car would cost about $2,000 plus the labor cost to install it. Inasmuch as your car has only 130,000 miles, if you are having transmission problems, it might be possible to repair your existing...
Cranks but won't start
There are several possible causes for a vehicle to crank and not start (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-not-starting-inspection). There could be a bad fuel pump, faulty plugs, bad timing belt/chain, faulty ignition, failed camshaft/crankshaft sensor, or any number of other possible causes. It would...
Oil drain bolt leaking
Hi there. Unfortunately, these things do happen as the oil drain plug is removed and installed many times during the life a vehicle. Was there a drain plug gasket on the drain plug you installed? If not, this will definitely...
Rough idle new spark plugs coil packs bank 1 and 2 number 2 02 sensors fuel filter air filter maf sensor
Hello. I suggest that you test the idle air control valve operation and check the throttle body for excessive buildup. Both of which can cause erratic idling. At your particular mileage it will be a great idea to have your...
I have a 2007 Cadillac STS , the passenger door will not unlock with the fob or unlock from inside the vehicle controls , you have
Hi Ken. Thanks for contacting us tonight. What you are describing is commonly caused by an open or damaged electrical relay that operates the power lock function on your door. When the relay is stuck in an open position, it...
My boyfriend's truck dies any time he or anyone else let's off the gas. What could this be?
This may be related to a number of different things, but depending on the year, make and model of the truck it could be related to a faulty throttle position sensor or a dirty or faulty idle air control valve....

Related articles

2012 Honda Pilot vs. 2012 Acura RDX: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport utility vehicles are fun in the sun, sand, dirt, mud, and even in the carpool line at school. Whether you’re hauling around your family or your family of pets, these SUVs are sure to make even a drive around...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Mobile Housekeeper
If If you are a mobile housekeeper, chances are that you are looking for a small, reliable used vehicle that offers good gas mileage and enough space to store your supplies. With that in mind, we present to you the...
How to Change Your Automatic Transmission Fluid
Besides Besides the engine, the transmission is the most expensive part of your vehicle. And like engine oil (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-change-your-oil), the transmission fluid requires periodic replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-often-do-i-need-to-replace-the-transmission-fluid). Many automatic transmissions also have an internal filter that needs to be replaced along...