Buying a new car is an exciting experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining it properly. One of the most common questions car owners have is when to get their first oil change. In this article, we will answer that question and provide you with all the information you need to know about oil changes for your new car.
What is the Manufacturer’s Recommendation?
The first thing you should do when you buy a new car is to check the manufacturer’s manual for the recommended oil change interval. The latest developments in the automotive industry have led to improved engine materials, fuel delivery systems, oil chemistry, and manufacturing methods, which means that modern car engines can now be stretched for 5000 to 10,000 miles before requiring an oil change. Therefore, if you are wondering when to get the first oil change on a brand new 2023 car, it is ideal to follow the prescription in the vehicle-specific manufacturer’s manual for the first oil change and subsequently.
Should You Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendation?
While the manufacturer’s recommendation is a good starting point, professional auto mechanics recommend an interval shorter than what is prescribed in a vehicle’s manual. If you are contemplating the first oil change in a new Honda car or your respective car model, to be on the safer side, you may have to change your brand new car’s oil anywhere around 500 to 1,500 miles. However, if your manufacturer states the interval for your first oil change, then you have to follow the recommendations.
Why Do Auto Mechanics Recommend an Earlier Oil Change?
The reason why auto mechanics recommend an earlier oil change is that new cars produce more metal particles and contaminants during the break-in period. These particles can cause damage to the engine if they are not removed. By changing the oil earlier, you can ensure that your engine is protected during this critical period.
FAQs
- Should I change the oil in my new car after 1000 miles?
While some auto mechanics recommend changing the oil after the first 500 miles, others suggest waiting until the first 1,500 miles. Ultimately, it depends on your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendation and your driving habits.
- Is it bad to drive a brand-new car long distances?
Manufacturers recommend break-in periods to allow the vehicle’s piston rings to seal appropriately against the vehicle’s cylinder bores. However, most modern vehicles can be taken on long road trips because manufacturers have built more sophistication to overcome any limitations that older vehicles had in the past.
- How long should you leave break-in oil in a new engine?
The break-in time for modern vehicles is around 500 – 1,500 miles. So, you shouldn’t leave break-in oil in your brand-new car’s engine beyond 1,500 miles.
- What should I check on my car first service?
During a new car’s first service, there are a couple of things to inspect properly, including coolant and oil levels, air filter, fuel level, transmission fluid, brake fluid, odometer reading, tire pressure and tread depth, and parking lights, turn signals, and headlights.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a brand-new car seems to require more attention than used cars. However, by following the recommended intervals suitable for your brand-new car’s oil change, you can get the best out of it. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend around 7,500 to 10,000 miles, while expert auto mechanics recommend between 500 and 1,500 miles. No matter what you do, never exceed the period prescribed by your vehicle’s manufacturer’s manual.
