How Often Should You Change Oil in a 2018 Subaru Impreza with Low Mileage
Managing the maintenance of your vehicle is crucial for its performance and longevity. One common question is: 'How often should I change the oil in a 2018 Subaru Impreza when I drive 8,000 miles a year?' The answer lies within your owner's manual and the manufacturer's website, not from a local mechanic or Google searches.
Where to Find the Correct Information
The most reliable source of information about oil change intervals is your vehicle's owner's manual. Most automakers provide specific service intervals, taking into account various factors such as the make, model, and driving conditions. Additionally, you can visit the official Subaru website for detailed service information tailored to your 2018 Subaru Impreza. This information is updated based on the latest research and developments in engine technology and maintenance.
Myths and Realities
There are common myths about oil changes that need to be debunked. Some say you should change the oil every 3,000 miles, others claim you should do it every 5,000 miles. These suggestions often come from less reliable sources, such as local mechanics who may have ulterior motives or outdated knowledge. Subaru, like other major manufacturers, bases their recommendations on extensive research and testing to ensure the best performance and longevity of your car.
For instance, the petrochemical company Shell also recommends changing oil more frequently than some automakers. This is because they have an economic interest in frequent oil changes. However, auto manufacturers spend millions of dollars each day on research and development to understand the optimal maintenance intervals for their vehicles. Trust the experts who have the best interest of your car's long-term health at heart.
Insider's Perspective
As an insider, I once had a conversation with a Shell employee who worked with diesel Mercedes models from the mid-2000s. He changed his oil and ran the car for 12,000 miles on the same oil. He did this because the car's onboard computer would indicate when the oil needed changing. This anecdote highlights that the manufacturer's recommendations are often informed by real-world data and not just arbitrary numbers.
Benefits of Consulting the Owner's Manual
Your owner's manual is a goldmine of information. There is a page dedicated to oil change intervals that takes into account your driving habits and style. For instance, if you drive in heavy traffic, you might need to change the oil more frequently than if you drive on highways. Also, the manual covers other important maintenance questions that you might have.
Opening the trap door in front of the passenger seat usually gives you access to the manual. If the manual is missing, don't worry; you can access it online through the manufacturer's website. Using Google, you can search for '2018 Subaru Impreza manual' and find the service pages that provide detailed instructions.
Conclusion
The best way to determine when to change your oil in a 2018 Subaru Impreza is to follow the recommendations provided in your owner's manual and on the official Subaru website. These sources are backed by the extensive research and development of the vehicle's engine and overall design. Trust the professionals who have invested millions into understanding the best maintenance practices for their vehicles.