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If you’re planning a long drive and wondering, “Should I get an oil change before my road trip?”, the short answer is: it depends. Getting your oil changed too soon, such as a few hundred miles after your last service, isn’t necessary and can be a waste of time and money. However, if you’re approaching your next scheduled oil change or can expect to pass that mileage threshold during your road trip, it’s a smart, preventative step to help your engine perform at its best.
At McCullough NAPA Auto Care in Sandy Springs, Georgia, we aim to provide straightforward answers and practical advice. When you schedule an oil change with us before a road trip, it includes a complimentary multi-point inspection, which helps ensure your entire vehicle is ready for the journey, not just your engine. That extra checkup can help prevent unexpected breakdowns while you’re miles from home.
Why Oil Condition Matters on Long Drives
Your engine oil is vital in keeping your vehicle running efficiently, especially during long-distance drives in warm weather. Unlike short commutes around town, extended road trips often mean extended periods of highway driving, increased engine heat, and additional weight from passengers and luggage. All of that stresses your engine, making it even more critical for the oil to be in good condition and at the proper level.
Engine oil is a lubricant for moving parts, helping them glide smoothly rather than grind against each other. It also helps reduce engine heat by carrying warmth away from hot spots, preventing the buildup of harmful sludge and carbon deposits. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to do these things effectively. Old or dirty oil can lead to increased engine wear, higher operating temperatures, and lower fuel efficiency, none of which are ideal when trying to enjoy a worry-free road trip.
When It Makes Sense to Get an Oil Change Before a Road Trip
While not every road trip warrants an oil change, there are several situations where it’s the smart thing to do. If your car is due for an oil change or will be soon, handling the oil change before the road trip gives you one less thing to worry about on the road. Even if you technically still have some miles left before your next change, it’s often easier and more convenient to take care of it ahead of time than to deal with it mid-trip.
You should strongly consider getting an oil change before a road trip if:
You’re within 500–1,000 miles of your next oil change. If your trip will push you past your service interval, it’s better to start with fresh oil.
It’s been over 3 months or 3,000–5,000 miles since your last oil change (depending on your vehicle and whether you use conventional or synthetic oil).
Your oil looks dark, dirty, or sludgy on the dipstick.
You’re unsure of your last oil change and don’t have records.
You’ll be driving through areas with extreme heat, high elevation, or heavy hills—conditions that can put extra stress on your engine.
Think of it as a form of trip insurance. Peace of mind is worth the small investment for many drivers, especially families with children in the car.
Complimentary Multi-Point Inspection With Your Oil Change
When you schedule an oil change at McCullough NAPA Auto Care, you get a complimentary multi-point inspection. This is a thorough check of your vehicle’s most essential systems. This isn’t just a courtesy, it’s a valuable opportunity to catch minor problems before they become major issues during your trip.
Our multi-point inspection includes:
Fluid checks and top-offs for coolant, transmission, brake fluid, washer fluid, and power steering
Battery testing to ensure it can handle the strain of a long drive and hot weather
Tire inspection for pressure, tread depth, and signs of uneven wear or damage
Visual checks of belts, hoses, and wiper blades for cracks, leaks, or wear
Complete check of lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
Air filter inspection to help maintain fuel economy and protect engine performance
This multi-point inspection provides valuable insight into your car’s overall health and allows us to make any necessary repairs before you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest shop. For families, that added layer of confidence is hard to beat.
Let Us Help Get You Road-Trip Ready
So, should you get an oil change before a road trip? If your vehicle is approaching its recommended service interval, or if you’re not 100% confident in your oil’s condition, the answer is yes. Not only will your engine thank you, but you’ll also receive a complimentary multi-point inspection that helps ensure your entire vehicle is road-ready.
Whether you’re planning a long summer drive, a family vacation, or a weekend getaway, the McCullough NAPA Auto Care in Sandy Springs team can help you hit the road confidently. Our ASE Certified technicians are here to ensure your car is in top shape wherever your journey takes you.
Schedule your oil change today and let us help you prepare for a smoother trip.
FAQ About Getting an Oil Change Before a Road Trip
If you’re due, or nearly due, for an oil change, then yes, it’s a smart idea to get it done before a road trip. Fresh oil helps your engine run cooler and more efficiently during long drives. However, if you’ve had an oil change recently and are well within the service interval, you likely don’t need another one.
Yes, having your car serviced before a road trip is highly recommended. A basic oil change and a multi-point inspection can catch issues like worn tires, low fluids, or battery problems before they cause trouble on the road.
Yes, driving long distances on old or dirty oil can increase engine wear and lead to overheating. If your vehicle is due, or will be due, during your trip, it’s best to get an oil change beforehand to avoid stress on your engine.
Highway driving is generally easier on oil than stop-and-go city driving, but long trips still put extended stress on the engine. If your oil is already near the end of its life, highway miles can push it past its limits faster than you might expect.
