Engine oil lubricates moving parts, carries away heat and keeps sludge from building up. Old, broken-down oil can't do any of that well. So how often should you change it? The honest answer: it depends on your car, your oil and how you drive.
The old 3,000-mile rule is outdated
Modern engines and oils last much longer than they used to. Many vehicles using synthetic oil are designed for intervals of roughly 5,000 to 10,000 miles, and some even longer. Your owner's manual — or your car's oil-life monitor — is the best guide for your specific vehicle.
When to change it sooner
Manufacturers often list a separate "severe service" schedule. In Houston, many drivers fall into it without realizing:
- Frequent short trips where the engine never fully warms up
- Stop-and-go traffic and long idling
- Extreme heat — Texas summers count
- Towing, hauling or carrying heavy loads
- Dusty or dirt roads
Signs your oil needs attention
- The oil-change or oil-pressure warning light is on
- Oil on the dipstick is dark, gritty or below the minimum mark
- Louder engine noise or ticking
- A burning-oil smell inside the cabin
- Exhaust smoke that's darker than usual
Don't forget the filter
The oil filter traps the particles your oil picks up. Replacing it with every oil change keeps fresh oil clean for longer — and it's an inexpensive add-on.
Skip the shop
With RODLX, a CARELX technician comes to you for an engine oil change and filter replacement. You'll see the labor price upfront, and you can bring your preferred oil or have the technician source it.
