Everyone knows cars require routine oil changes. What many people don't know is how often and why. For a long time, there's been a myth going around that we should change our oil every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. But, that's not really the case. Actually, older cars can run fine for 3,000-6,000 miles on conventional oil, and newer models on synthetic oil can go at least 6,000 miles between oil changes. Some newer cars are even designed to go 15,000 miles.

As a car dealer and service center, you might think we shouldn't be telling you this, right? Well, actually, Pamby Motors gives free scheduled oil changes for life on new cars purchased from us. We know how important it is to get those oil changes done routinely and we want you to know  the facts.


Our service manager, Tim Pambianchi, says it best: "Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle to keep the engine lubricated and working." When a car runs too long without an oil change, internal problems will arise. You'll get sludge in the crankcase, as well as carbon deposits that will damage engine components. You would think, heat would cause oil to thin out or break down, but in fact, it has the opposite effect. A vehicle's engine creates internal heat that actually causes oil to thicken - known as viscosity breakdown.

The best thing to do is to find out the recommended oil change schedule for your specific make and model.  This information can be found in the maintenance chapter of your owner's manual. You can also call our Ridgefield, CT Pamby Service Center at
 888-620-0047 if you have any questions. Besides changing your oil, during an oil change, you should also expect to have your tire pressure set, as well as an inspection of coolant and wiper fluid levels and a check on the engine's air filter. Oil change prices start at $39.95 for vehicles not purchased from Pamby.

THE BOTTOM LINE

•    Cars running on conventional oil - get an oil change every 3,000 - 6,000 miles
•    Cars using synthetic oil can go 6,000 miles or more between oil changes
•    Oil change information for your specific make and model is in your owner's manual
•    Check oil levels yourself and refill in between oil changes
•    Oil changes generally include setting tire pressure as well as inspection of wiper blades, coolant and wiper fluids and engine air filter

Pamby Motors Service Center is located at 143 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT. Call us at (888) 620-0047 to schedule your service.