HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY VEHICLE’S OIL?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY VEHICLE’S OIL?
Posted on March 25, 2026
Changing your oil regularly is the single most effective way to protect your engine. Regular oil changes prevent metal-on-metal friction, neutralize internal moisture, and stop the formation of engine-killing sludge.
1. What Is Engine Oil and How Often Should You Change It?
- Conventional oil — Every 5,000–7,500 km or every 3-6 months
- Full synthetic oil — Every 8,000–12,000 km or every 6-12 months
In most cases, Kramer Mazda recommends an oil change every 8,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first, to ensure peak vehicle performance.
2. Why Is Changing Engine Oil Important?
Fresh oil performs five critical functions that old, saturated oil cannot:
- Lubrication: Prevents metal-on-metal contact between moving components.
- Heat Dissipation: Absorbs and transfers extreme heat away from the engine core.
- Cleaning: Uses detergents to suspend and carry away dirt and carbon debris.
- Corrosion Protection: Coats metal surfaces to prevent oxidation and moisture damage.
- Sealing: Fills microscopic gaps between pistons and cylinder walls for maximum power.
3. What Happens If You Don't Change It?
Neglecting oil maintenance leads to a predictable and expensive timeline of engine decay:
- Slightly Overdue: Oil darkens, and fuel efficiency begins to drop.
- Significantly Overdue: Oil loses its lubricating "slickness"; the engine runs louder and rougher.
- Severely Neglected: Oil turns into sludge, causing extreme internal heat and permanent component warping.
- Critical Failure: The engine seizes completely. At this stage, repair costs typically range from $5,000–$10,000+ CAD.
Discover the Difference.
At Kramer Mazda, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service and a truly customer first experience. If you’d like to learn more or have questions, we’d love to hear from you.