Areas We Serve

At Wendle Ford, we're proud to serve the greater Spokane, Washington, area. Since 1943, we've welcomed customers from throughout the Spokane Valley area to our family-operated dealership. Whether you hail from Liberty Lake or you're just over the Idaho border in Coeur d'Alene or Post Falls, our dealership is a convenient destination for a local oil change.

After all, our team has served the area for over 75 years. That means we know all about the vehicle maintenance issues you might run into and the routine repairs your car, truck, or SUV is likely to need in this corner of The Valley.

Why Choose Wendle Ford?

At the Wendle Ford Service Center, we know routine vehicle maintenance is the key to a smooth ride. That's why oil changes are just one of the many services we offer. We also provide a convenient oil change and tire rotation service to keep your vehicle in peak condition, and we offer wheel alignments, filter changes, and a wide range of repairs.

Because our service team is made up of factory-trained Ford technicians, you can rest assured that we know the latest techniques and technologies to keep your vehicle operating efficiently. However, we service all makes and models. Whether you need a Ford oil change or a tire rotation for another make, we're here to help.

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, our service department has you covered. Schedule an oil change or ask about our current oil change specials, and keep your vehicle running smoothly for thousands of miles to come.

FAQs About Changing Your Oil

It's helpful to learn as much as you can about changing your oil so you know how to keep your vehicle in good shape. Here are some common questions concerning changing oil.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Every vehicle needs routine oil changes, but the timing varies based on your driving style and the age of your car. This mileage chart features the average intervals for changing your oil:

• Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles:Older vehicles that you use for short trips, towing heavy loads, or stop-and-go driving.
• Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles:Vehicles with normal usage and driving conditions.
• Every 15,000 miles:Newer vehicles that require full synthetic oil.

How Long Can You Really Go Without an Oil Change?

To keep your car in the best possible condition, you should follow the guidelines above and make a point of scheduling service as soon as possible. If you wait too long, however, you might notice these signs that you're overdue for an oil change:

• Decreased oil level:As your vehicle's engine runs, the oil level naturally drops over time. However, if you notice that the level has dropped suddenly or if it has dipped below the minimum, it's important to schedule an oil change when you can.
• Elevated engine noises:Oil is designed to lubricate your engine so that each part works properly without creating friction. As motor oil ages, it thins out and develops a texture, causing the engine to operate less efficiently and more loudly. If you notice your engine becoming louder over a short period of time, schedule a quick lube right away.
• Increased exhaust:Most newer vehicles don't produce visible exhaust. If you can see white or gray exhaust coming from the tailpipe, consider it a sign that your vehicle's oil is too old and needs to be replaced immediately.

What Happens If You Don't Change Your Oil?

If you never change your vehicle's oil, you could experience serious problems. Some of the most common issues include:

• Decreased gas mileage:Because oil is essential to efficient engine operation, neglecting to change it can cause poor fuel economy. In fact, you might have to refuel your car much more often than usual.
• Engine failure:If your engine goes without fresh oil for an extended period of time, it will ultimately fail. It may stop working or display a more catastrophic failure.
• Voided warranty:To uphold your vehicle's warranty, you have to commit to regular maintenance. As a result, you may not be able to leverage the warranty when necessary.

Can You Just Add Oil Instead of Changing It?

If you're in the habit of checking your oil regularly, you might notice that it's nearing the minimum level. If the oil is a clear brown or black, you can generally add more oil to tide you over until it's time for an oil change. However, if the oil is dirty or gritty, take your vehicle in for an oil change instead.

Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil: What's the Difference?

Many newer vehicles require synthetic oil rather than conventional oil. Conventional oil is less stable and breaks down faster, while synthetic oil offers more engine protection and breaks down much more slowly.

How Long Does Synthetic Oil Last?

Also known as high-mileage oil, synthetic oil lasts much longer than conventional oil. The average vehicle needs a synthetic oil change every 15,000 miles or so. Check your owner's manual to confirm.

Is Full Synthetic Oil Worth the Price?

When you go to schedule your next oil change, synthetic may be a good choice for your vehicle. After all, synthetic oil is designed to perform better in extremely hot or cold temperatures, and it keeps your engine cleaner no matter the driving conditions. Additionally, a synthetic oil change coupon can help you keep costs affordable.

How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

At Wendle Ford, we know your time is valuable. Our team strives to get your engine lubed up and your vehicle back on the road as efficiently as possible. That's why we recommend scheduling oil changes ahead of time either over the phone or via our website. When you make an appointment in advance, we can typically complete your oil change in under an hour. If you take advantage of our free car wash with your service, your time with us may run up to 1.5 hours.