Trusted Oil Change Services in Sandy, UT

Do I Really Need an Oil Change Yet? (Spoiler: Yes, But Here's Why.)

Ever found yourself stuck in I-15 traffic with your car humming away and that little dashboard light quietly judging you? Yeah, you’re not alone. One of the most Googled car care questions out there is: "How do I know if I need an oil change?" And it’s a fair question—especially with modern cars flashing reminders, running diagnostics, and basically being smarter than your average toaster.

But here’s the thing: even with all that tech, oil still wears out. And ignoring it? That’s a shortcut to costly repairs and your engine throwing a full-blown tantrum.

So let’s break down why oil changes still matter, how to know when you’re due, and what actually goes down during the process.

What Even Is an Oil Change?

Let’s start with the basics. An oil change is exactly what it sounds like: we drain the old, used-up oil from your engine, replace the oil filter, and pour in fresh, clean oil that keeps everything lubricated and running smoothly.

Oil isn’t just there for show—it reduces friction between engine parts, prevents overheating, traps contaminants, and helps your engine run like it’s supposed to. Think of it like your car’s coffee: without it, things get cranky fast.

At Gary Beardsley Automotive, we don’t just swap your oil and call it a day. We check filters, top off other fluids, and keep an eye out for anything weird under the hood. Because let’s be honest—if something’s about to go sideways, we’d rather catch it before you’re stuck on the side of 9400 S.

Different Types of Oil Changes

Not all oil changes are created equal, and choosing the right type depends on your vehicle and how you drive. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Conventional Oil Change – Ideal for older vehicles or those with simple engine designs. It’s the classic option: reliable, affordable, and gets the job done.

Synthetic Oil Change – Best for high-performance engines or extreme temperatures (hello, Utah summers and winters). Synthetic oil lasts longer and handles heat and cold like a champ.

Synthetic Blend Oil Change – A middle-ground option that mixes synthetic with conventional. It gives you better protection than conventional without the full price tag of full synthetic.

High-Mileage Oil Change – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. Helps reduce oil burn-off and keeps aging engine seals flexible.

If you’re not sure what your car needs, don’t sweat it. Our techs can take a look and recommend the best fit based on your vehicle and driving style.

Learn more about our oil change service

How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?

The "3,000-Mile Rule" Is Basically Retired

Remember when every mechanic (and your dad) swore you had to get an oil change every 3,000 miles? That rule’s gone the way of the flip phone.

Modern engines and synthetic oils can often go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between changes. Some cars even push it further. But—and this is a big but—it really depends on your vehicle, your oil type, and how you drive.

Read the Manual (Seriously)

Your owner’s manual isn’t just glovebox clutter. It tells you what type of oil your car needs and how often to change it based on real testing. And trust us, the people who built your car know what they’re talking about.

Utah Driving = Tough on Oil

If you’re cruising around Sandy, Draper, or South Jordan, you’re dealing with hot summers, icy winters, and stop-and-go traffic that’s hard on your engine. That means your oil might need a refresh sooner than you think—especially if you’re doing a lot of short trips, towing, or mountain drives.

What About That Little Windshield Sticker?

Ah, yes—the classic oil change sticker in the top left corner of your windshield. It’s low-tech but surprisingly helpful. That sticker usually lists the mileage or date (or both) of your next recommended oil change based on your vehicle and oil type.

Is it always gospel? Not exactly. But it’s a handy visual reminder that keeps you from guessing or relying solely on your dashboard light. If it’s been a few months and that number is creeping up, it’s probably time to stop by and get it checked.

When in doubt? Get it checked.

Schedule your oil change online today

Why an Oil Change Really Matters

Still not convinced it’s a big deal? Let’s paint the picture:

Your engine’s got dozens of fast-moving metal parts rubbing together. That oil? It’s the cushion that keeps them from turning into a friction-fueled meltdown. Without clean oil, those parts heat up, wear down, and eventually break. Think metal-on-metal chaos—and that’s not cheap to fix.

Over time, oil collects dirt, metal shavings, and engine gunk. It gets thicker, darker, and loses its ability to protect your engine. Fresh oil keeps everything slick, clean, and efficient. Dirty oil? It’s like trying to run a marathon in ski boots.

Long story short: regular oil changes are one of the simplest, most affordable ways to keep your car running strong for the long haul.

Oil Change FAQs

Q: How do I know if my oil needs changing? A: Look out for dashboard reminders, weird engine noises, or oil that looks dark and dirty. If you’re not sure, we can check it for you.

Q: How do I check my oil myself? A: Pop the hood, pull out the dipstick (it usually has a brightly colored handle), wipe it clean, reinsert it, then pull it out again to check the level and color. If the oil is low, gritty, or dark like burnt coffee, it's probably time for a change. Pro tip: do this when the engine is cool and the car is on level ground.

Q: What happens if I skip oil changes? A: Sludge buildup, engine wear, overheating, and—worst case—total engine failure. Skipping oil changes is like gambling with your car’s health.

Q: Is synthetic oil better? A: In many cases, yes. It lasts longer and performs better in extreme temps (hello, Utah winters and summers). But not every car needs it—check your manual or ask us.

Q: Can I rely on my car’s oil life monitor? A: Mostly. These systems are pretty smart, but they’re not perfect. If you drive in tough conditions (mountains, stop-and-go traffic), you might need more frequent changes.

Q: How long does an oil change take? A: Usually about 30–45 minutes. Enough time to scroll your phone, sip some coffee, and pat yourself on the back for being a responsible car owner.

Q: Do you do more than just change the oil? A: Absolutely. We check your filters, fluids, belts, and anything else that might be trying to ruin your day.

Tired of playing oil change roulette with your engine? Don’t wait for warning lights—or weird noises—to tell you it’s time. If you're anywhere near Sandy, Draper, or the greater Salt Lake Valley, we’ve got your next oil change here. Book your appointment now and give your engine the fresh start it deserves.