3 Tips For Saving Money On Your Fall Oil Change

Sometimes, the little things in life can really add up, such as getting your oil changed. However, changing your oil on time is vital for maintaining the safety and quality of your vehicle. Here are a few ways that you can save money on your next oil change.

#1 Know How Long You Can Really Wait

One of the best ways to save money on your next oil change is by knowing when you should really get one. Many people stick to the decades old advice that you should change your oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months; however, this advice is old and outdated. This advice came around during a time when oil was not as refined as it is now, and engines were not as advanced or as skilled at filtering and using oil.

For most vehicles, this advice is simply outdated. To really know when you should change your oil, you should check your vehicle's owner's manual, which should give you the correct internals for changing your oil according to your vehicle's manufacture. The state of California has also created an online resource where all vehicle owners with a car made during or after 2000 can check and see what the actual oil change interval on their car is. Doing your own research and finding out how often your vehicle is actually designed to have its oil change can help you save a significant amount of money; the interval is probably longer than you realize.

#2 Stick To Regular Oil

When you get your oil changed, you are going to be offered the choice between regular and synthetic oil. Unless your vehicle's owner's manual specifically calls for the use of synthetic oil, stick to regular oil. Regular oil generally costs less up front than synthetic oils, and will work more effectively in your vehicle if that is the type of oil recommended for it.

Additionally, although synthetic oil is supposed to be cleaner, regular oil has made great strides over the years. Regular oil contains less contaminants and thus works more effectively in your engine than it did even a few years ago. Regular oil has really increased its standards over the years, and it shows when you use it in your vehicle.

#3 Stay With The Basics

If you are really trying to stay on budget, stick to the basics when you get an oil changed. When you get an oil change, the mechanics will generally perform a more details inspection, such as a "40-point-checklist". Just because your mechanic lets you know that your air filter needs change, or your anti-freeze could use a flush doesn't mean that you need to do those things right now. Ask the mechanic how much each of those services will cost, and then add them into your budget for your upcoming paychecks. You don't have to have everything worked on that they identify during this check when you get your oil changed.  

Check out a shop like Scotty's Automotive Center for more info.

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