Changing the oil in an engine is one of the best things you can do to keep it in tip top condition. But how often to make the change is a good question and one that is difficult to answer. The best place to seek guidance is from the car’s manual. This will give the manufacturer’s recommended number of miles between oil changes. But some manufacturers are over optimistic about how effective their oil use is.
However, we don’t want to waste money changing when we don’t have to. Although it might not seem like it oil is a scare resource and should be used sparingly. It is also extremely toxic and difficult to get rid of. The only place oil can be taken once removed from the engine is a garage or a recycling plant. It cannot be disposed off by the individual because of its poisonous nature.
So, we do not want to change the oil when it is not necessary but on the other hand we don’t want to damage our engine because the oil is spent. Sometimes you can tell by smelling and feeling the oil, how dirty and contaminated it is. If your car is fitted with an autometer oil pressure gauge and you are experienced at reading it you might be able to tell from that. If in doubt ask a mechanic or someone with automate DIY experience to give you a hand. If the car is a recent second hand purchase you could always as the seller if they can recall or you might just be better off changing it anyway so you know where you stand.
You can solve avoid this problem next time by purchasing some generic oil change stickers. You can write on these the mileage when the next change is due. Why generic? Because many of the suppliers of stickers offer to brand then but if you’re an individual you won’t need this service.
