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Maintenance

How Often Should I Change My Oil?

The old '3,000 miles' rule is outdated for most cars. Here's how to know your real interval.

Follow your manufacturer

Most modern cars using synthetic oil are designed for 5,000–10,000 miles between changes, or the interval shown by the oil life monitor.

When to change more often

'Severe service' schedules apply to a lot of everyday driving:

  • Lots of short trips
  • Stop-and-go traffic
  • Extreme heat
  • Towing or heavy loads
  • Dusty conditions

Don't forget time

Even if you don't drive much, oil ages. Many manufacturers recommend changing it at least once or twice a year.

What we check during an oil change

Filter, fluid levels, tire pressure, brakes at a glance, belts and hoses, lights and any leaks — so small problems get caught early.

FAQ

Is synthetic oil worth it?

Most new cars require it. It protects better in heat and lasts longer between changes.

This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Rules and policies change — check your policy and the official source, or ask us.

*Deductible assistance of up to $1,000 is available only on insurance claims where your insurance company has approved a repair amount of $8,000 or more and the repair is performed in accordance with that insurer-approved estimate (California Penal Code § 551(b)). We never increase a repair estimate to cover a deductible. Not available on customer-pay repairs. Ask us for details before your repair begins.

**Free computer diagnostic scan: we read and explain your vehicle's trouble codes at no charge, no purchase required. If the problem needs in-depth testing (labor), we give you a written estimate and get your approval before any paid work, as California law requires.

†Warranty: limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle; 24 months / 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) on mechanical repairs, parts and labor. Not covered: normal wear, new damage, abuse or neglect, rust or chips from road debris, and customer-supplied parts. Warranty terms are written on your invoice.

‡Accident towing: you pay nothing out of pocket when you have collision coverage or the other driver is at fault — we pay the tow and bill the insurance company. If no insurance covers the tow, we tell you the price before the truck is sent.

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