Oil changes are one of the easiest and most regular maintenance routines for your vehicle. If the oil is not changed, it will become dirty and clog the oil galleys and pumps. Once oil cannot flow to the engine anymore, the engine will seize, giving you a very expensive repair bill.

Mileage

Once a car has been driven 3,000 to 5,000 miles, it is due for an oil change. This will hold true for the entire life of the car. You can refer to your owner's manual for a definitive time frame for changing your vehicle's oil. Periodically, a mechanic will also recommend changing the oil filter. Changing your oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles will keep your car healthy.

Every Three Months

If you do not drive your vehicle very much and do not reach the 3,000 to 5,000 mile mark before three months is up, change your oil. Even though you do not drive your vehicle often, the oil is still sitting and can clog pumps and galleys. Again, along with the oil you should change the filter. According to CarBibles.com, your car may even have a built in system to tell you that the oil needs to be changed. A light on the dashboard will indicate that maintenance is required.

Check Oil

An important part of changing the oil is checking its consistency and levels between changes. Notice if there is oil loss. You could be burning oil or have a leak somewhere and not realize it. According to CarTalk.com, you should check the oil every few hundred miles. If the oil is a little low between changes, add a quart or so. If the oil is completely empty, add oil and take it to your mechanic for repairs.

Source:

The Engine Oil Bible

Driver Side

Car Talk