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How often should I change the oil in my car?

How frequently should I change the oil in my car? I just bought a car and I know nothing about car maintenance. However, I'm certain that changing the oil is important to keep your car running smoothly.

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“In the past, many mechanics and automakers recommended that you change the oil every 3,000 miles. But with advanced engineering in cars and the evolution of motor oils, you could realistically wait between 5,000 and 7,000 miles to change the oil without fear of damaging your engine at all.
That said, high-mileage cars may require more stringent oil change schedules, especially if you want to avoid the costs of significant repairs or having to tap into your
used car warranty
.
If you want to avoid this altogether, you might want to consider an
electric car
, which doesn’t require an oil change at all.
Most car maintenance you do for your vehicle will not be covered by your car insurance policy. That said, it’s always a good idea to review your policy to ensure you’re not overpaying. If you want the peace of mind of knowing that you’re paying the lowest rates for the best coverage, try using the
Jerry
app. Jerry automatically reviews your policy every six months and shops for the best deals. And if you need to switch policies to save money, Jerry does all the paperwork for you, so you can save money and time. And the best part–Jerry does all of this for free.”
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