How Long Has It Been Since Your Last GMC Oil Change?

If it has been a while since your last oil change, you aren’t alone! Getting an oil change is a part of car ownership that many people overlook, which can spell disaster for your vehicle. A critical factor in proper automobile maintenance is knowing when services should be performed; keep reading to learn how often your car needs a GMC oil change.

GMC Oil Change Intervals

While some people still swear by the classic advice of getting an oil change every 3,000 miles, you may not need to change your oil that often. New automotive technology has produced more precise oil life monitoring systems, and drivers are alerted when their vehicles need servicing. Also, the synthetic oil used in most cars does not break down as quickly as the oil your great-grandpa was using on his GMC.

Most drivers today can safely reach distances of 5,000-7,000 miles before needing an oil change, with some vehicles even traveling as far as 10,000 miles safely. The owner’s manual for your car, or your local GMC dealership, should be the mileage you follow. Your car model may have specific needs, and servicing your vehicle correctly is the best way to ensure it performs properly.

Extreme Conditions

There are certain situations where you may need to change your oil more frequently than usual. For example, if you regularly drive your vehicle in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, you may need to service your car more often.

This rule especially applies if you frequently drive short distances in freezing weather or long distances in the scorching heat. In addition, unusually dusty conditions can warrant more frequent oil changes, as can using your car to tow other vehicles or trailers.

The Function of Oil In the Engine

If your engine doesn’t have oil, it won’t be operational for long, and if your engine doesn’t work, you aren’t going anywhere. Oil is as essential to your vehicle’s performance as gasoline, even if it doesn’t get as much attention.

Cleaning

Oil serves to clean particles of dirt and metal shavings from the engine. As oil flows through the motor, it collects debris and carries it to the oil filter. The debris caught in the filter is removed from the engine each time the oil filter is changed.

Lubrication

When your car’s engine is running, parts move and rub against one another. This shifting creates friction which causes the breakdown of the rubbing pieces and overheating of the engine. The oil’s lubrication also allows parts to move smoothly and quickly against one another, enabling the vehicle to achieve its top performance and speed.

Cooling

By easing the friction between gears, oil cools the lower portion of your engine. Your vehicle’s timing gears, pistons, crankshaft, and rod bearings all use oil to keep them lubricated and running at a manageable temperature. Without oil to cool your engine, your engine would overheat and seize up.

Car maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you need an oil change or any other automotive service, we are ready to provide your vehicle with quality care. Give us a call at Crain Buick GMC, and let us keep your vehicle running smoothly.

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