News

Are you one of those drivers who doesn't hit the recommended mileage for an oil change? Do you find yourself wondering if it's really necessary to change your oil based on time? Well, you're not alone. Many drivers, particularly those who don't drive often, question whether time-based oil changes are truly necessary. In this article, we'll explore the topic of time-based oil changes and help you make an informed decision about when to change the oil on a low-mileage vehicle.

First, A Word on the Purpose of an Oil Change

To understand the importance of time-based oil changes, it's worth understanding the purpose of oil in your engine. Oil serves as a lubricant, keeping the moving parts of your engine working smoothly in conjunction with one-another and preventing excessive wear and tear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at performing its job.

Oil Deterioration

When it comes to oil changes, most people are familiar with the common recommendation of changing their oil every 5,000 miles for conventional oil. But what if you don't reach that mileage milestone within the recommended time frame? Should you still change your oil or can you extend the interval?

Mileage is often used as a guide for oil changes. When you drive, the heat of the engine breaks down the oil's lubricating properties over time, and you collect debris that makes it way into the oil (this is why an oil filter change is also part of routine maintenance and is typically recommended at every oil change or every other oil change). However, mileage isn't the only factor at play.

When your vehicle sits, it isn't in the clear. Time also plays a role in the degradation of oil. Even if you don't reach the recommended mileage, oil will deteriorate due to factors such as temperature fluctuations, moisture buildup, and chemical reactions. Long story short: if you haven't driven a lot, the oil in your engine may still need to be changed.

How Often Should Oil be Changed Based on Time?

This answer varies depending on your specific vehicle, driving conditions for those times you do drive, and the type of oil you use. As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to change your oil at least once a year, even if you haven't reached the recommended mileage.

Are Seasonal Oil Changes Required?

Today, many cars use multi-viscosity oil that adapts to different temperatures, making it suitable year-round. This means there isn't a need to change oil for winter and summer specifically. If  you run a season-specific oil, however, you'll want to change the oil for a type that is appropriate for the upcoming season in which you'll be driving, even if you'll only have your vehicle out on occasion.

What About Seasonal Vehicles in Storage & Oil Changes

There is debate surrounding which method is best for oil changes with vehicles that go into storage.

The options are to:

• Replace the old oil before putting the vehicle away.
• Replace the old oil after the vehicle comes out of storage.

That said, the benefit of changing the oil before you put your vehicle away long-term is that you are removing old oil that may be acidic and have fuel and moisture in it, which can have a negative impact on your vehicle.

What About Vehicle with an Oil Life Monitoring System

If vehicle is equipped with an oil life monitoring system, follow its recommended oil change intervals. These systems take into account factors such as driving conditions, engine load, and temperature to provide a more accurate estimate of when your oil needs to be changed. Your owner's manual will provide more guidance on how the oil life monitoring system works in your make and model.

Conclusion

Time is a valid reason to seek a lube, oil change, and filter service. If you don't drive often or only drive short distances, it's still important to change your oil at least once a year to prevent damage to your engine. Depending on other factors, it may be better to change it at least twice a year or as your owner's manual recommends.

Remember that synthetic oil lasts longer, so time intervals will be different if you use this type of oil over conventional oil.

Many drivers tend to focus on mileage-based oil changes, but it's equally important to consider the passage of time when it comes to maintaining the health of your engine. Even if you don't hit the recommended mileage for an oil change, oil still deteriorates over time due to various factors. If you are a low-mileage driver, remember that changing your oil based on time can help keep the engine running optimally and protect it from unnecessary wear and tear.

Should you need an oil change in Alpharetta, Georgia, contact Canada Tire Company. We are here to assist with your lube, oil change, and oil filter replacement needs, alongside other routine maintenance and automotive services. Stop in the next time you need an oil change based on time or mileage. As always, we look forward to serving you!