Are you planning a long road trip anytime soon? If yes, then you might be wondering if getting an oil change before the trip is necessary.
After all, you don’t want to have any car troubles while on the road. So, should you get an oil change before a long road trip? Let’s explore this question in detail.
What is an Oil Change?
An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure for your car that involves draining out the old oil and replacing it with fresh, clean oil. The purpose of this procedure is to keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly.
Over time, engine oil breaks down and becomes less effective at doing its job. That’s why it’s important to get regular oil changes.
When Should You Get an Oil Change?
The frequency of oil changes depends on several factors such as the make and model of your car, how often you drive, and the type of driving you do. In general, most car manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months (whichever comes first). However, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or drive in dusty or extreme weather conditions, you may need to get an oil change more frequently.
Should You Get an Oil Change Before a Long Road Trip?
Now coming back to our original question – should you get an oil change before a long road trip? The answer is – it depends.
If your car is due for an oil change according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule or if it has been more than six months since your last one, then it’s definitely a good idea to get one before hitting the road. This will ensure that your engine has fresh and clean oil to keep it running smoothly during the trip.
However, if you recently got an oil change and your car is still within the recommended mileage or time frame, then there’s no need to get another one just for the trip. In fact, getting an oil change too frequently can be wasteful and unnecessary.
Other Pre-Trip Checks
Apart from getting an oil change, there are other pre-trip checks that you should perform to ensure that your car is in good condition for the road trip. These include:
- Checking tire pressure and tread depth
- Inspecting brakes and brake pads
- Testing headlights, taillights, and turn signals
- Checking windshield wipers and fluid levels
- Inspecting belts and hoses for signs of wear and tear
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, getting an oil change before a long road trip can be a good idea if your car is due for one according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule or if it has been more than six months since your last one. However, if your car is still within the recommended mileage or time frame, then there’s no need to get another one just for the trip. It’s also important to perform other pre-trip checks to ensure that your car is in good condition for the journey ahead.