Angie's List: When Is The Right Time For An Oil Change?

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Does your car need an oil change every 3,000, 5,000 or 7,000 miles?

In today's Angie's List report, how often depends on a variety of factors.

Annie Adams has the oil changed in her car every 3,000 miles.

"My car is a fairly new car so it has a computer that tells me that it's time for the oil to be changed. It's pretty simple," Adams said.

There was a time when three months or 3,000 miles was sound advice on when to change your oil, but times have changed.

"With the improvements made to engine oil as well as cars, you need to depend on your owner's manual for the best recommendation of how frequently your car may need an oil change. It could be 3,000, 7,000, even 10,000 miles," Angie Hicks from Angie's List said.

Where and how you drive your vehicle can also play a role.

If you're in extreme climates or in stop and go traffic frequently, you may want to increase your oil changes.

However, if you ignore this maintenance item, damage can occur.

"If you skip a lawn treatment you can always catch up and recover your lawn, but your engine will wear and you won't get that back," auto shop owner Jim Trump said.

Checking under the hood and vehicle during an oil change can also help your mechanic spot needed repairs or services before major work is needed.

"Develop a good rapport with a regular mechanic who works on your car because that trusting relationship will help you in caring for your car," Hicks said.

Angie's List said a common complaint they hear regarding oil changes is upselling.

Your best defense against being upsold, is to know what the manufacturer recommends at specific miles for your car.

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