The most common service interval has historically been the 5000-mile mark. In the past most automotive experts considered that a bit long, and we mostly recommended the oil change at 3000 - 4000 miles, which also confused everyone.  More recently better engines and better oil fit the 5000-mile service. However, if you upgraded to synthetic oil, it could extend the service to 7500 miles.

Now most modern vehicles require synthetic oils and can go much further, 10,000 - 15,000 miles on some models. The more oil the engine can hold, the longer periods of service. The problem is the owner's manuals are still suggesting 5,000 miles no matter what the oil. At any rate, we suggest at ToyoTechs and Atlanta Hybrid that you come to the shop at least twice a year if for no other reason than the typical safety and maintenance inspections provided while changing the oil.

We'll always recommend what's right for your specific car, but at 5,000 miles, you can typically expect us to do the following:

• Rotate the tires if needed.
• Check the engine air and cabin air filters.
• Check safety components.
• Determine if any other maintenance or repairs are needed (such as an oil change).