At one time, the standard oil change frequency for all vehicles was every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. However, due to engineering advances, that’s no longer the case for every car. Honda owners wonder how often they should get a Honda oil change. The answer is that it depends on what year your vehicle was manufactured.
Manufacturer Recommendations
If your Honda was manufactured before 2008, you should follow the standard guideline of getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. Vehicles that were manufactured between 2008 and about 2015 can usually drive for about 5,000 miles or six months before getting their oil changed.
Newer cars manufactured after 2015 can often wait for an oil change until there are 7,500 and 10,000 miles on the odometer.
Factors That Require More Frequent Changes
While it is true that advances in engineering and oil technology have reduced the need for frequent oil changes, some factors can cause the oil in your car to break down faster than it normally would. If your driving habits include one or more of the following conditions, you’ll want your oil changed more frequently than recommended.
- You drive aggressively (accelerating and braking quickly)
- You find yourself in stop-and-go traffic frequently
- You live in a cold-weather state
- You frequently drive short distances
How to Tell That It’s Time for an Oil Change
The Color of the Oil
When motor oil is clean, it’s a translucent amber color. You can see through it to the metal on your dipstick when you check your oil level. If it needs to be changed because it’s dirty, it will be an opaque dark brown or black color. You will not be able to see the dipstick through it during oil level checks. You can also bring your car to a service center to check the color.
Your Car Reminds You
Most newer vehicles come equipped with maintenance reminders telling you when it’s time to change your oil. In your Honda, you’ll see a light illuminate on your dashboard when 15% of life is left in your oil. You’ll want to schedule your oil change at this time or shortly after that. However, remember that this light is only a guide. Your driving habits are still essential to keep in mind when planning your maintenance frequency.
There’s a Knocking Sound In Your Engine
The main function of motor oil is to keep the parts in your engine lubricated and moving against each other smoothly. If your oil is dirty, or you don’t have enough oil in your car, you’ll likely hear a knocking or rattling sound from the engine. This sound is coming from the parts hitting each other without the benefit of lubrication. Have your car inspected at the same time as your oil change to ensure no damage was done.
The frequency of your oil changes depends heavily on your driving habits. However, at a minimum, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations as indicated in your owner’s manual. Contact DARCARS Honda to schedule your oil change and maintenance appointment today.
Connect with us
