Oil changes are a regular part of automobile maintenance, but despite how common they are, many Kia Soul owners aren’t sure how often to do them. Keep reading to find out.
The 3,000-Mile Recommendation Doesn’t Always Hold True
There was a time when the standard recommendation for oil changes regardless of model was that they should happen every 3,000 miles. Generally, that’s what responsible car owners did, especially if they were aware of how oil changes that occur at recommended intervals can help extend a car’s lifespan. However, as technologies in the automotive industry improved, manufacturers
began creating cars that didn’t need the oil changed as often.
Under so-called normal conditions, you can change the oil in your Kia Soul every year, or 7,500 miles, whichever comes first. That number alone proves how much progress has been made since the days when automakers built vehicles that needed more frequent oil changes.
Reasons Why It’s Okay to Change the Oil Less Frequently
Some car owners are curious about why they don’t have to change the oil so often, provided they’re driving their vehicles under normal conditions. There are several reasons.
First, modern motor oil includes additives that prevent sludge buildup and corrosion. Also, these updated motor oils are engineered to function normally even when subjected to extremely hot or cold temperatures — which could not be said for motor oils of the past. Finally, testing has indicated that even after it has been in a car for over 3,000 miles, motor oil still causes the desired lubrication effect (although in some cases, it does not offer all the protective benefits attributed to fresh motor oil).
Should You Change the Oil in Your Kia Soul More Often?
As indicated above, the 7,500-mile recommendation is for a Kia Soul driven under “normal” conditions. So, what’s abnormal? Cars with turbocharged engines, such as the Kia Soul SX, may need their oil changed more often. Also, if you take a lot of trips under 10 miles, and particularly in cold weather, those excursions can be harder on the engine and therefore warrant the oil being changed more. Similarly, if you’re a city dweller and deal with a lot of stop-and-go traffic, that’s another reason to potentially change the oil more often than your owner’s manual indicates.
Have a Chat with a Trustworthy Mechanic
If you’re still feeling doubtful about whether you’re following the recommended maintenance procedures when it comes to changing the oil in your Kia Soul, visit Superior Kia and discuss your driving habits with us. One of the dashboard warning lights on the Kia Soul is related to oil changes, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on it and not delay an oil change any longer once the light activates.
However, your mechanic can give specialized advice based on how you usually rely on your Kia Soul. Get started by contacting the service department at your local Kia dealership. That’s the easiest way to know you’re doing the right thing and properly maintaining your Kia Soul.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.