Getting your oil changed is a vital step in extending your Kia’s lifetime and health. By changing your oil when needed, you protect the engine from any damage and enjoy your Kia even longer. However, it can be hard to know when to change the oil! Garvey Kia has the recommendations you need about the importance of oil, when to get an oil change, and who should do it.
Importance of Oil Maintenance for Your Kia
The oil in your Kia acts as the lubricant and coolant in the engine. This helps to regulate the temperature inside and reduce friction between components of the engine. By getting regular oil changes for your Kia, you prevent serious damage to your engine. With regular oil changes, you can sigh with relief knowing that, under the hood, your Kia is operating smoothly.
When to Get an Oil Change for Your Kia
All Kia vehicles list specific mileage recommendations for when to pursue oil changes in your owner’s manual. The specific time to get an oil change is affected by several factors, including the type of engine, condition of your Kia, and driving habits.
However, Garvey Kia generally recommends that you get an oil change for your Kia every 3,750 miles - 5,000 miles, or an average of every 6 months. If you fuel your Kia with synthetic oil, you should look to change it every 5,000 mile interval or 6 months, whichever occurs first. Check out the benefits of synthetic oil versus conventional oil to decide what’s best for your Kia!
Your Kia can also offer signs for when it needs an oil change. These can include:
- Oil appears as dark or sludgy, not light.
- Unusual engine sounds, like knocking or grinding.
- Darker smoke coming out of exhaust.
- Smell of oil inside the Kia.
- Oil change or check engine light turns on.
Another key concept to consider when planning oil changes is the weather in the New York and Vermont areas. Garvey Kia’s area is categorized as a "severe service interval" area. This means service (including oil changes) is recommended at least twice a year, even for low mileage vehicles. Kia owners in New York and Vermont should look to have their car underneath examined, tire pressure checked, oil changes, and other basic services at least twice a year to combat the winter.
Hire a Professional or DIY?
Now that you know more about when to get an oil change for your Kia, you’re faced with a glaring question. Who is going to change the oil? Garvey Kia strongly recommends that you have your Kia dealership professionals change the oil for you. There are multiple benefits to having a professional perform oil changes:
- Any service performed by a Kia-certified technician comes with a 12,000 mile/12-month parts and labor warranty - including oil changes! If you change your oil yourself, you do not receive this warranty.
- Having a pro change the oil is convenient and quicker than changing it yourself. It can be done in a matter of minutes!
- Take the guesswork out of when to get oil changes; professionals will put your vehicle on a regular schedule.
- You don’t need to stock up on equipment, research how to DIY an oil change, or buy materials.
- A Kia professional can perform preventative maintenance at the same time!
- Removes the risk of accidentally damaging your Kia or limiting your vehicle’s life.
- Kia dealerships can dispose of the oil for you. No need to find somewhere to drop off the old oil.
While you can change your Kia’s oil yourself, Garvey Kia strongly recommends bringing your vehicle in for oil changes by the professionals. This is much safer and more convenient for you!
At Garvey Kia, our goal is to provide you with a professional and comprehensive experience. Our certified Kia partners at our dealership will provide you with exceptional service, changing your oil and performing preventative maintenance to ease your mind. Overall, we want you to have a positive experience, even with something as routine as an oil change. Contact us now to get an appointment for your Kia’s oil change.
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