Knowing when to get an oil change is essential for any type of car to maintain peak performance and protect the engine. With luxury and high-performance vehicles, it's absolutely critical. The traditional rule of thumb to change your oil every 3,000 miles was based on lower-quality oil. Those standards have largely changed, including for luxury cars.
Oil Change Intervals for Luxury Cars
While the principles behind scheduling an oil change have shifted, schedules are the same for luxury cars as standard consumer models. The former often have more stringent standards. That goes for oil type and quality, service intervals, and related servicing requirements (e.g., replacing the oil filter). For the most part, luxury vehicles can go longer between oil changes, but it incurs greater expense. It depends on the model, the car's overall condition, driving habits, and age.
Older models
In the past, there were far fewer oil types on the market, resulting in more uniform servicing schedules. This standard of service is functionally the same for high-performance luxury cars but with some minor differences.
Luxury vehicles have always been precision-engineered for greater engine efficiency, reducing wear and tear (under normal driving conditions). They're also designed for higher-performance oil, but regular oil changes are still necessary, especially for older models.
To understand how often you should get an oil change, start by consulting your luxury car's documentation. Don't go outside manufacturer recommendations.
Knowing your car’s exact model and mileage is necessary for a true estimate of how often you should get an oil change, but it’s conceivable your older luxury car could go upwards of 6,000 miles or more if it's in good condition. Other factors that might impact the frequency of necessary oil changes include whether more advanced oil technologies are compatible with your older luxury model.
However, if you’re unsure or want to talk to an expert, Berg Performance offers top-quality services and products, and our team can direct you to the best option to keep your car running at peak performance.
Newer models
Most newer luxury models can go longer between oil changes. They're compatible with the most cutting-edge oil products, and the car itself will typically have lower mileage and less wear. Some manufacturer oil schedules can go upwards of 12–15,000 miles, and there's more leeway for softer driving styles.
Again, upholding manufacturer recommendations is key, but newer luxury models work with some of the most advanced oils on the market, extending the range and time between oil changes.
Why Are Oil Changes Important
Clean oil is necessary to reduce friction and protect fast-moving components. As oil ages, it has a higher chance of accumulating metal filaments and grime. Based on all the variables, how do you know when to get an oil change?
Signs You Need an Oil Change
Besides tracking your mileage, several signs that might indicate it might be time for an oil change include:
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Illuminated oil or check engine light(s)
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Hard driving conditions
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Engine overheating
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More smoke from the exhaust than usual
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Inconsistent oil levels
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Dirty or discolored oil
A quality luxury car shop like Berg Performance can examine your oil to determine its cleanliness and point out any other service issues that may be affecting oil quality.
Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil
Synthetic oil typically has a significantly longer service life. Almost all newer luxury cars use exclusively synthetic oil.
If you have a choice between synthetic or conventional oil, consider whether the synthetic oil has any additives designed to extend engine life. Don't hesitate to contact your manufacturer or a high-performance auto shop that always follows OEM servicing standards.
Schedule Your Luxury Vehicle Oil Change Today
We've emphasized the importance of heeding manufacturer recommendations for when to get an oil change, including oil type and related components. If your luxury car is overdue for an oil and filter service, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with the team of experts at Berg Performance.
For over 50 years, we have specialized in factory service, tuning, and restorations. We take every precaution to keep your engine performing at its peak level, including applying the most advanced oil products and services possible for any given luxury model.
Contact Berg Performance or book an appointment today.
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