When Should You Change Your Oil?
Most modern cars need oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, not the outdated 3,000-mile rule. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation. Synthetic oil lasts longer (7,500-15,000 miles). Factors like driving conditions, climate, and vehicle age affect the interval. Many cars now have oil life monitors that tell you when to change.
Key Takeaways
- The 3,000-mile rule dates from the 1970s when oil and engine technology were less advanced.
- Older vehicles (pre-2000) may still benefit from more frequent changes due to less precise engine tolerances.
- Mixing synthetic and conventional oil is generally safe but may reduce the synthetic's longevity benefits.
Explanation
The 3,000-mile rule dates from the 1970s when oil and engine technology were less advanced. Modern engines are more efficient, and modern oils (especially synthetics) last much longer. Following outdated advice wastes money and oil. Your owner's manual has the correct interval for your specific vehicle.
Driving conditions affect oil life. Severe conditions (frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, dusty environments, towing, stop-and-go traffic) require more frequent changes. Highway driving is easier on oil than city driving because the engine reaches optimal operating temperature and stays there.
Many newer vehicles have oil life monitoring systems that track driving conditions and calculate when oil change is actually needed. These are more accurate than fixed mileage intervals. When the monitor indicates 15-20% oil life remaining, schedule your change. Some vehicles can go 10,000+ miles between changes under normal conditions.
Things to Know
- Older vehicles (pre-2000) may still benefit from more frequent changes due to less precise engine tolerances.
- Mixing synthetic and conventional oil is generally safe but may reduce the synthetic's longevity benefits.
- Very short trips where the engine never fully warms up are harder on oil than long drives.