If you’re asking yourself, “How often should I get my oil changed?”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney, and for good reason. Staying on top of oil changes is one of the easiest—and most important—ways to protect your engine and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
The answer depends on your vehicle, the type of oil it uses, your driving habits, and your maintenance history.
General Oil Change Guidelines
Most modern vehicles today run on synthetic motor oil, which is designed to last longer and perform better than conventional oil. If your car uses synthetic oil, most manufacturers recommend an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
If your car still uses conventional motor oil, the recommendation is a bit more frequent—about 3,000 to 5,000 miles between oil changes.
However, these are just general guidelines. You should always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate maintenance schedule. If you’re unsure, you can always speak with a service advisor at our service center in Gaffney for personalized recommendations.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Change Your Oil
While the type of oil is a major factor, there are several others that can affect how often you should get your oil changed:
1. Your Driving Habits
Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic on I-85, or towing heavy loads put more stress on your engine. If you fall into this category, it may be wise to get your oil changed a bit sooner than the manufacturer recommends.
2. Climate and Road Conditions
Extreme heat, cold, or dusty conditions can also take a toll on your oil and engine. Since South Carolina summers can get hot and humid, regular oil change intervals are especially important to maintain engine health.
3. Your Vehicle’s Age
Older vehicles often require more frequent oil changes, especially if they’re running on conventional oil. Newer models with advanced engines and synthetic oils can usually go longer between changes.
Why Getting Your Oil Changed Matters
Motor oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, reduces heat, and helps prevent wear and tear. Over time, however, oil breaks down, becomes dirty, and loses its effectiveness. When this happens, it can’t properly protect your engine, leading to:
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Sluggish engine performance
- Increased emissions
- And in worst-case scenarios, major engine damage
That’s why routine oil changes are not just a good idea—they’re essential to your vehicle’s long-term performance.
Where Should You Get Your Oil Changed?
You might be tempted to swing by a quick oil change chain. But when it comes to your car’s health, we strongly believe it’s better to visit your local dealership—and here’s why.
At Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney, our factory-trained technicians do more than just change your oil. While your vehicle is in the shop, we also perform a 97-point inspection to catch any other issues that might threaten the wellbeing of your vehicle. We’ll check your tires, brakes, fluid levels, battery, and more to make sure everything is running like it should. We pay for our technicians to get the best training possible, and we even have Master Technicians on our team that are qualified to address major issues your car may be exhibiting.
Plus, we’re often more competitively priced—and even cheaper—than many quick-lube shops in the Upstate of South Carolina, with monthly service specials to save you even more.
Why Choose Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney for Your Oil Change?
Here’s what makes getting an oil change in Gaffney SC at Burns Chevrolet a better experience:
- Factory-trained technicians who can work on any vehicle make (not just Chevrolet!)
- Genuine GM parts and oil for long-lasting protection
- Multi-point inspection with every oil change
- Competitive pricing and service specials
- Complimentary coffee, water, and Wi-Fi while you wait
- Convenient Saturday hours (9AM-5PM)
- Online scheduling, call-ahead, or walk-ins welcome
Whether you’re a long-time customer or it’s your first time visiting, we strive to make your experience convenient, professional, and hassle-free. Schedule your next oil change here.
Many Customers Browse Vehicles While They Wait
One of the perks of getting your oil changed at Burns Chevrolet is that while you wait, you can take a look at our wide inventory of new cars and used cars in Gaffney.
It’s not uncommon for customers to come in for an oil change and end up thinking about trading in their current vehicle. Whether you’ve outgrown your car or you’re just curious about the latest models, we’re always happy to give you a trade-in evaluation on the spot.
If you’re visiting from nearby cities like Blacksburg, Spartanburg, Boiling Springs, or Shelby, NC, our friendly sales staff will be happy to show you the newest Chevrolet models like the 2025 Traverse or help you explore our affordable used vehicles for sale. Our used car lot in Gaffney often has popular models from brands like Toyota, Honda, Kia, Jeep, RAM, and Ford.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oil Changes
What happens if I wait too long to change my oil?
Waiting too long can cause oil to break down, leading to increased engine friction, heat, and wear. Over time, this can cause major engine damage and expensive repairs.
How can I tell if I need an oil change?
Look out for:
- Dashboard oil light
- Engine knocking or ticking sounds
- Dark, dirty oil on the dipstick
- Decreased fuel economy
- Strange smells or smoke
If in doubt, swing by our service center in Gaffney and we’ll take a look.
Can I switch between conventional and synthetic oil?
In most cases, yes—but it’s best to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Synthetic oil offers better protection and longer intervals, so many customers choose to upgrade for long-term savings.
Do I need an appointment?
No! While we recommend scheduling your service online or giving us a call at 864-761-0245, we also accept walk-ins. We’re even open on Saturdays to fit into your busy week.
Get the Right Service at the Right Time
At Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney, we believe in honest advice and top-tier service. Whether you need a quick oil change in Gaffney SC, help understanding your maintenance schedule, or you’re interested in used cars in Gaffney, we’re here to help.
We’re proud to serve drivers from Gaffney and surrounding areas like Boiling Springs, Shelby, Blacksburg, and Spartanburg, and we’re committed to keeping your vehicle running at its best.
And remember—routine maintenance like oil changes doesn’t just protect your vehicle, it protects your investment. Let our expert team give your car the attention it deserves.
Ready to take care of your next oil change? Schedule your service today. Or just stop by—we’d love to see you!
Visit Us Today
Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney is your trusted South Carolina Chevrolet dealer, offering everything from expert service to an unbeatable selection of new and used cars. Whether you’re here for an oil change or to explore trade-in options, you’ll experience top-notch service from a team that cares.
We’re located right in the heart of Gaffney and are proud to serve drivers from across Upstate South Carolina and nearby North Carolina towns. Come see why so many people trust Burns Chevrolet for all their automotive needs.
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