Most people recognize that any car should get an oil change after about 3,000 miles. I know that I was starting to get a bit uneasy the last time I let my car go over 5,000 (or maybe more) without heading in for my latest oil change. However, apparently, I need not have rushed straight to Valvoline.
Research shows that oil chemistry and engine technology have improved so much that most cars can go several thousand more miles before they need to have their oil changed. Phillip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for the car site Edmunds.com, says that most cars made within the last 7 to 8 years can go between 7,500 – 10,000 miles between oil changes.
Before you jump for joy and wait 10,000 miles until you fork over money for your next oil change, keep two things in mind:
- Make sure you follow the advice in your owner’s manual. Different cars have different needs and requirements. Also, oil change needs are different if you do a lot of stop and go driving as opposed to longer-distance highway driving.
- Sometimes your warranty specifies how long you can go between oil changes without nullifying your warranties protections. Be sure to double check your warranty for specificities.
Chris Martin, a Honda spokesperson, says that people continue to adhere to the 3,000 mile myth because the “Jiffy Lubes of the World” have convinced people of this “fact.”
It’s not just the fast oil change outlets. My sticker from my trusted mechanic states that I’ll need a change in 3,000 miles or three months. But Jiffy Lube, the largest quick oil change company in North America, is now under pressure to change its automatic 3,000-mile recommendation.
Find out how to get a more accurate idea of how often your car needs oil changes and more over at The NY Times’ The 3,000-Mile Oil Change Is Pretty Much History.