The oil in your car goes bad over time. It breaks down, picks up dirt and particles, and eventually can’t provide the lubricating and cooling capabilities your engine needs. At Visalia Ford, we provide fast and convenient oil changes with a wide range of conventional, semi-synthetic, and synthetic oils based on what’s best for your car. Learn more about how often to schedule a Ford oil change and how to check your oil in between changes.
When to Change Your Oil
It’s important to have a Ford oil change regularly, but that schedule changes depending on what type of oil is in your car. You can determine what type of oil your car should use by:
Conventional Oil
Synthetic Oil
Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic Blend Oil
- Consulting your owner’s manual
- Checking online or asking a car parts store
- Contacting your dealership
These sources will say whether you should have synthetic or conventional oil and what viscosity it should have, depending on the make and model of your car.
Conventional Oil
If you have conventional oil, schedule a Ford oil change every six months or so. Most conventional oils last between 3,000 and 5,000 miles, though some can last up to 10,000 miles in ideal driving conditions. Your car’s manual can give you a more specific schedule for your particular vehicle.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is designed to last longer, up to 15,000 miles or around a year. However, if you drive in stop-and-go traffic or do a lot of driving along dusty roads, the life of the oil will be shortened.
Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic Blend Oil
Semi-synthetic oil and synthetic blend oil last approximately as long as conventional oil, and they will need replacing every six months or so.
Other Factors That Influence How Often You Should Change Your Oil
Car and oil manufacturers offer standard advice and mileage ranges to guide how often drivers bring their cars in for an oil change. However, these numbers are conservative estimates, and your car may need a different schedule. Here are some other factors to consider:
- Vehicle make and model: Your car’s manual can give you specific scheduling recommendations.
- Driving habits: Driving in stop-and-go traffic, along dusty or steep roads, or with heavy loads can shorten the lifespan of your oil.
How to Check Your Oil
In between Ford oil changes, it’s a great idea to regularly check your oil. Oil may leak to low levels, or the oil can pick up too much dirt and particulate over time. It’s an easy diagnostic tool that can help alert you if your car needs an oil change sooner than you think. As a general rule, try to check the oil at least once a month.
What You Need
To check your oil, all you need is a dipstick (generally provided in your car) and a paper towel.
What to Do
When your engine is cool and hasn’t been running for a while, open the hood and locate the dipstick, which usually has a bright yellow or orange handle. Carefully pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean on a paper towel, and fully reinsert it. Then, pull it out again and examine the oil on the dipstick.
At this stage, you can check the level by seeing if the oil reaches between the minimum and maximum markings on the dipstick. You can also check the color and consistency. It should be clear or golden, smooth, and thin. But if the oil is dark, gritty, or milky, it’s time for an oil change.
Why Changing Your Oil Regularly Is Important
Your car relies on clean oil to lubricate the engine parts, provide cooling, and clear out contaminants. If the oil is low or too dirty, it can cause friction and leave your engine too hot. Over time, this decreases fuel efficiency and hurts your engine.
Stay Road-Ready—Schedule Your Next Oil Service at Visalia Ford
At Visalia Ford, we provide quick and professional Ford oil changes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get routinely scheduled reminders to keep your car in great shape.
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