Oil changes are crucial to keep the car’s engine in good shape. It is a basic maintenance task that needs to be done on time every time. If you ignore oil changes and do not use a proper product, your actions might void the car warranty. To make sure your engine stays in optimal condition, we shared information on how often you should change your oil. 

Change Oil after Every 1,000 miles

This oil change recommendation is for older cars. It does not apply to modern cars with computer-controlled engines and uses advanced lubricants. The distance traveled is not the only factor that determines the right oil change interval; your driving habits also play a crucial role in how often you should change your oil. 

• If you don’t drive much or your car does not go on highways, you need to change the oil every 3 months or 3 months whichever is earlier.  The reason behind this is engine condensation. Water causes oil to breakdown. The moisture mixes with water and reacts with additives to form insoluble molecules that can damage the engine. Since your car does not attain steady speeds, the engine never heats to an extent where the moisture in the oil can evaporate. In that case, you need to change the oil every 1,000 miles. 

• If your car runs on the gravel road or dirt road more often, fine dust particles can get mixed with oil that calls for an oil change after every 1,000 miles. 

Change Oil Every 3,000 Miles

This is a recommendation that mostly applies to older cars.  If you drive an older car, check the car manufacturer for the right oil change interval. If the car manual mentions oil change interval every 3,000 miles, you are probably better off adhering to the recommendation. 

Change Oil Every 5,000 Miles

Most modern cars can go 5,000 miles before an oil change is needed. Some modern cars have a longer oil-change interval – 7,000 miles or more.  Since oil change intervals also change with car type, there is no standard oil change interval. To find the right oil change interval for your car, read the car owner’s manual.  You need to follow the oil change interval recommended by your car manufacturer. Also, use the oil recommended by the car manufacturer. 

Change Oil Every 10,000 Miles

This is the longest oil change interval for modern cars. If your car uses synthetic motor oil, your car manufacturer may recommend an oil change every 10,000 miles.  The synthetic oil is more man-made and it has many additives to increase its performance and life. If your car frequently tows loads, it can benefit from the use of synthetic motor oil. One basic rule to follow regarding oil change is - always follows car manufacturer recommendations. 

Some modern cars have features that alert the driver when the engine needs an oil change. The oil change alert message is displayed in the instrumentation panel. In that case, you can change the oil when you see the alert. 

There are lots of misconceptions related to how often to change your oil. The information given in this post clarifies most doubts and helps you find the right oil change interval for your car.