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Oil change frequency depends on the type of driving
you do. Most manufacturer's recommendations are
based on optimal driving conditions. Unfortunately,
most of us don't drive under perfect conditions.
Here are some common types of driving that make your
engine work harder:
The Cold Start: After you start your car, the
engine takes a while to warm up to peak operating
efficiency. During this time, it doesn't completely
burn gasoline,
leaving fuel residues which contaminate the motor
oil.
Short Distance Driving: Your engine works
most efficiently on longer trips at constant speeds.
Unfortunately most of us run quick, short trips.
City driving is
extremely tough on your engine and its oil; each
trip, your oil has to contend with warm-up
contaminants and increased engine heat during snail
paced traffic.
The Loaded Car: If your car has many
convenience options, your engine runs at much higher
temperatures. An automatic transmission, air
conditioner or power
steering can each add 15-20 degrees to engine
temperature, forcing motor oil to work harder to
cool it.
Infrequently Used Cars: Cars which aren't
driven regularly have rusting problems from moisture
that develops in the engine. This moisture also
combines with
fuel residues to form corrosive acids.
Towing: Towing a boat or other load puts
stress on you car's engine and increases its
operating temperature. High temperatures demand more
from your motor
oil to cool the engine.
Dusty Conditions/Rough Roads: In dusty
conditions, small particles of dust and dirt enter
the engine. The air filter cannot trap all of it,
and some becomes
suspended in your motor oil, causing premature
engine wear.
The criteria listed above define severe driving
conditions. A recent customer survey revealed that
more than 93% of Q Lube customers drive under these
conditions, which means more frequent oil changes
are necessary to achieve longer engine life. For
severe driving conditions, most vehicle
manufacturers
recommend changing your oil every 3,000 miles. Check
you vehicle's owner manual or ask your Jiffy Lube
specialist. |
