Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith

Dec 16, 2023

A regular oil change at your Chevy dealership is essential to ensure your engine is well-lubricated and purring like a kitten. Fresh engine oil will improve your Chevy’s fuel efficiency and performance and ensure your vehicle continues to be a pleasure to drive for much longer. 

oil change in fort smith arkansas
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You Haven’t Changed the Oil for Six Months

Following the factory-recommended oil replacement intervals, every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every six months, is essential to keep the moving engine components lubricated, prevent friction and wear, and ensure your Chevy stays on the road longer. Older Chevy models will need oil replacements more frequently than newer models.

If you drive an older Chevy, the factory recommends an oil replacement every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every six months. Check your owner’s manual for your specific model’s prescribed oil replacement intervals, or speak to your Chevy technician for more information.

The OLMS Is On

The modern Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS) has significantly impacted the frequency of oil replacements. Chevy vehicles can now go for much more extended periods between oil replacements. The OLMS is designed to calculate multiple factors like driving conditions, mileage, speed, and engine temperature to determine when an oil replacement is necessary.

The “Change Engine Oil Soon” light will turn on when it’s time to schedule an oil replacement. It is highly recommended to replace your Chevy’s oil at least every six months, regardless of whether your vehicle has an OLMS or not. With time, the oil can accumulate contaminants, lose its protective properties, and stop lubricating the engine components properly. This lack of lubrication can eventually lead to wear and cause severe damage to your engine.

You’ve Been Driving Your Chevy Under Severe Driving Conditions

The factory-recommended oil replacements may vary depending on whether you drive your Chevy under normal or severe conditions. If you drive carefully on well-maintained roads, the factory-recommended oil replacement intervals should keep your engine well-lubricated and running optimally.

However, if you allow your car to idle for extended periods, often take short trips, drive on dusty and mountainous roads, use the brakes excessively, or tow heavy loads, you may need to replace the oil more frequently. Speak to your Chevy technician about your driving conditions to help you determine an oil replacement schedule best suited to your vehicle’s specific requirements to ensure your engine stays lubricated, clean, and protected.

It’s vital to stay on top of your Chevy’s oil replacements. Follow the factory-recommended oil replacement intervals, heed the OLMS alert, and never skip oil replacements to ensure optimal engine performance. If you haven’t replaced your Chevy’s oil in the past six months, call Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith now for an oil replacement, and our certified Chevy technicians will ensure your engine runs smoothly.