How Often Should You Change Your Commercial Truck's Oil?

Everyone knows you need to occasionally head to a commercial truck shop for an oil change - but how often does it need to be done? And what other situations might call for an oil change, for the best performance from your truck?

Mainline RV & Truck Service is Ohio's source for commercial truck repairs and service, and we want your drive to be as safe and smooth as possible. Here are some guidelines for changing your truck's oil.

Four Factors Affecting Your Truck's Oil Change Needs

1. Recommended mileage

Every truck will have a recommended number of miles between oil changes. This will vary between models and usage, but generally, the rule of thumb is 25,000 miles for heavy-duty vehicles and 5,000 miles for light-duty. It's best to check your manual to find out what the manufacturer recommends.

2. The oil's quality 

Each type of oil you might put in your truck will also be rated for a certain number of miles. Generally speaking, the more expensive the oil, the longer it will last.  So be aware of this.

Also, avoid putting low-quality oil in your truck.  Though oil prices have gone up, it's still not worth a small cost savings to use poor quality oil which may not be that reliable or perform as long as a high quality oil.  Remember, when your truck is down in the shop, it’s not making you money.  So the longer you can safely go between oil changes, the better.

3. Your driving style

Aggressive driving or braking, as well as traveling through mountainous terrain with steep inclines, will also put extra strain on your oil and lead to it losing its viscosity more quickly.  If you drive in these conditions you should change your oil more frequently. Those who drive on moderately flat roads will need fewer oil changes.

In addition, idling your vehicle will also burn oil, just more slowly. Nevertheless, if you spend a lot of time idling, it will cut into the recommended mileage between oil changes for your truck.

4. Weather factors

In particularly hot weather, the oil may loosen and lose its viscosity. Or, on the other hand, freezing temperatures can make your oil thick and sluggish, reducing its ability to lubricate your engine.

If you'll be driving in areas with extreme temperatures, it's a good idea to pre-emptively change your oil to something formulated for that environment.

Mainline RV & Truck Service is one of Ohio's best all-around commercial truck shops. From basic repairs and maintenance to major after-market part upgrades, we offer fair prices and excellent customer service.



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