Quick Answer

Yes. Preventive vehicle maintenance can help identify worn parts, leaks and other developing problems before they become larger and more expensive repairs.

While some newer vehicles using synthetic oil may have manufacturer-recommended oil change intervals of 7,500 or even 10,000 miles, Ultimate Automotive Service Center sees another benefit to more frequent service: it gives an experienced technician an opportunity to look over your vehicle.

For many drivers, that extra set of eyes can make a big difference.

An Oil Change Can Be More Than Just Changing the Oil

When Mark and the team at Ultimate Automotive Service Center service a vehicle, they're not simply focused on getting the old oil out and new oil in.

It's an opportunity to look at the vehicle as a whole.

Over the years, the Ultimate Automotive team has discovered developing problems during routine service that customers didn't know existed. Catching some of those issues early has saved customers from much larger repair bills later and a time consuming breakdown at the most inconvenient time.

Had those vehicles gone another 5,000 miles before anyone looked underneath the hood or vehicle, the outcome could have been very different.

Is 10,000 Miles Too Long Between Oil Changes?

There isn't one oil-change interval that's right for every vehicle.

Some newer vehicles using synthetic oil have manufacturer recommendations of 7,500 or 10,000 miles between changes. Other vehicles call for shorter intervals. Driving conditions can also affect the recommended maintenance schedule.

That's why you should always consider your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, warranty requirements, oil-life monitoring system and how you actually drive.

At Ultimate Automotive, Mark has found that around 5,000 miles can be a useful service interval for many customers because it creates regular opportunities to inspect the vehicle, not simply change its oil.

Small Problems Don't Always Stay Small

A small leak, worn belt, deteriorating hose, uneven tire wear or another developing issue may not cause an obvious symptom today.

Give it another several thousand miles, however, and that can change.

Preventive maintenance is about finding those issues while you still have options instead of waiting for a warning light, breakdown or major repair.

It can also give you time to plan and budget for a repair rather than having it become an unexpected emergency.

A Relationship With Your Auto Repair Shop Matters

Having the same trusted team regularly service your vehicle also gives them an opportunity to become familiar with it.

They can keep an eye on developing issues and help you distinguish between:

"This needs attention now."

and

"This is something we'll want to keep an eye on."

That's an important difference.

If you're looking for preventive auto maintenance near Johnston, Iowa, Ultimate Automotive Service Center can help you create a maintenance schedule that makes sense for your vehicle, mileage and driving habits.

Frequently Asked Questions