How often do you need to swap out the oil in your car? Do you need to follow the 3,000-mile rule that’s parroted countless times on the Internet and word-of-mouth? Find out how often you really need a BMW oil change in Baltimore, MD.
The Truth About the 3,000-Mile Rule
The 3,000-mile rule isn’t necessarily a myth; it’s just badly outdated. An oil change may have been a good rule to follow two decades ago, but automotive technology has vastly improved since then. Motor oil formulas and new synthetics have also evolved and last longer.
Changing your oil every 3,000 miles doesn’t hurt your vehicle. However, the more frequent changes mean heavier maintenance expenses, not to mention it’s not environmentally friendly.
How Often to Really Change Your Oil
Change your oil according to your vehicle’s user manual. While it differs between BMW models, the range is far above 3,000 miles. For the modern BMW car, the interval is around 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Keep in mind, though, this applies to normal driving conditions. If you drive under severe conditions, you may need to change the oil more often. These factors may constitute severe driving conditions:
- Daily stop-and-go-driving
- Frequent short commutes (under 5 miles) on city streets
- Frequent driving with heavy cargo in tow
- Heavy driving through off-road terrain
If you consistently drive under the above conditions, have a mechanic check the oil every time you have the vehicle serviced. The technician may determine an oil change is necessary even if the mileage is well below the mark for the next change.
Schedule a BMW Oil Change Appointment Today
Being your vehicle to BMW of Catonsville for your next oil change. We perform oil changes and flushes on all models.