Oil Changes: 3 Things Every Driver Should Know
A-MAX Editorial Team
Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent
Short answer
Change your oil as often as your owner's manual recommends, and watch for maintenance alerts on your dashboard. Check your oil level about once a month with the dipstick, and look at its color. Use the oil type listed in your owner's manual or on the oil cap so your engine runs smoothly.
Regular oil changes are one of the simplest ways to keep your car running well. Here are three things every driver should know.
How often should you change your oil?
Start with your owner's manual. It has the information you need about your car, including when it should go in for service.
Your car can also tell you. Many cars show a maintenance alert on the dashboard when it's time for an oil change or other service. If you see one pop up, get your car serviced as soon as you can.
If you're not sure who to trust, your car brand's dealer service department follows the maker's schedule. Whoever you choose, compare their advice with what your owner's manual says.
How often should you check your oil level?
Check your oil at least once a month. Your owner's manual will show the right oil level for your make and model. Here's how to check it with the dipstick:
- Park on level ground and put the car in park.
- Open the hood, pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
- Push the dipstick all the way back in, then pull it out again.
- Look at where the oil lands. If it's between the two marks, your level is fine. If it's below the low mark, add oil.
While you're at it, look at the oil's color. Oil gets darker as it's used. If it looks milky or foamy, that can be a sign of a coolant leak, so have a mechanic take a look.
Which type of oil should you choose?
Using the wrong oil can keep your engine from running at its best. Check your owner's manual to see what's recommended for your car. If it's not in the manual, it may be printed on the oil cap. Using the right oil weight helps your engine run smoothly.
What about older cars? You don't need special or rare oil just because your car has some years on it. If it's running normally with the oil it's been using, there's usually no need to switch.
Taking care of your car can be hard with a busy schedule. A few minutes a month and your owner's manual will go a long way toward keeping your car in great shape.
How A-MAX can help
A well cared for car is only part of the picture. Walk into one of our 240+ offices in Texas, California and Arizona, or call 1-800-921-AMAX to make sure your auto coverage fits how you drive.
About this page
Written by the A-MAX Editorial Team. Reviewed by Rajesh Sankaran, Licensed Insurance Agent. We review and update it as state rules and carrier availability change.
Last updated October 29, 2026
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Check your owner's manual for the recommended schedule and watch for a maintenance light or message on your dashboard. If the alert comes on, schedule service soon so you don't put extra wear on your engine.
Oil that looks milky or foamy on the dipstick can be a sign that coolant is leaking into the engine. That's worth having a mechanic check soon, before it turns into a bigger repair.
Your owner's manual lists the recommended oil type and weight. If you can't find it there, look at the oil cap under the hood, or ask your dealer's service department.
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