How Often Should You Change Engine Oil

The frequency of changing engine oil depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and the type of oil being used. In the past, it was common to recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles or every three months, but modern vehicles and advancements in oil technology have extended oil change intervals.
Many automakers now recommend changing the engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for regular driving conditions. Some vehicles, especially those with synthetic oil and newer models, may have extended intervals of 10,000 to 15,000 miles or even longer.
It's important to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations regarding oil change intervals. They provide guidelines based on the engineering and design of your particular vehicle.
Additionally, if you frequently drive in severe conditions, such as towing heavy loads, driving in extreme temperatures, or frequently stop-and-go driving, you may need to change the oil more frequently. In such cases, it's generally recommended to follow the severe service schedule mentioned in the owner's manual, which typically suggests shorter oil change intervals.
Regularly checking your oil level and condition is also essential. If the oil appears dirty, dark, or has a burnt smell, it's advisable to change it regardless of the mileage or time interval.
Remember, following the manufacturer's recommendations is crucial for maintaining the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle's engine.

At what oil life should oil be changed

The oil life indicator is a feature found in many modern vehicles that monitors the condition of the engine oil and provides an estimate of when it needs to be changed. Instead of relying solely on a predetermined mileage or time interval, the oil life indicator takes into account various factors such as driving conditions, engine temperature, and engine revolutions to determine the actual condition of the oil.
When the oil life indicator reaches a certain percentage, typically around 15% to 5%, it is generally recommended to change the oil. The specific threshold can vary between vehicle manufacturers, so it's important to refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil change point.
The oil life indicator is a valuable tool that helps optimize oil change intervals based on the actual condition of the oil in your engine. By following the guidance provided by the indicator, you can ensure that you change the oil at the right time, neither too early nor too late, which helps maintain engine performance and longevity.