How Long Can You Go Between Oil Changes?

Many people get confused about how long their vehicle can go between oil changes. The truth is that several factors go into determining just how often you need to change your car’s oil. From the type of oil you’re using to the age of your vehicle, it’s important to consider all factors before deciding when it’s time for an oil change.

Types of Engine Oil

Your car will need one of the four types of engine oil, and which one you use will be the biggest factor in determining how often to change your oil. For many newer cars, it’s recommended that you use a fully synthetic or synthetic blend engine oil. If you have an older car or a car with high mileage, you may have more options.

Conventional Oils

Conventional oils have been around since as far back as the 1800s. They are effective and affordable. They include additives that are designed to make the oil thicker so it provides more lubrication for the engine. Because these oils are created from crude oil, they aren’t as refined as synthetics and may contain impurities. Petroleum-based oils also have an impact on the environment. An oil change is recommended every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first.

Fully Synthetic Oils

Fully synthetic oils are produced either from scratch or begin as a byproduct of crude oil and are then transformed into something man-made. Because there are no naturally occurring products, the end result is a more consistent thickness with optimal lubrication. The upfront cost is a bit higher for fully synthetic motor oils, but they usually only have to be changed at 7,500 miles, or perhaps higher.

Synthetic Blend Oils

Synthetic blend oils contain both conventional and synthetic oil products. They offer a few more benefits than conventional oils but not quite as many as fully synthetic options. While they aren’t quite as expensive as synthetic oils, they do cost a bit more than conventional motor oils. A synthetic blend oil is usually changed every 5,000 miles or every five months.  

High-Mileage Oils

Special additives are used for high-mileage oils to help prevent oil burn-off, which becomes a more common problem for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. These oils work to protect your high-mileage engine so you can get many more years out of your car or truck. High-mileage oils can be conventional, fully synthetic, or a synthetic blend, which means you’ll have to judge the best time to change your oil based on the products recommendation and other factors, including the ones listed below.

Age of Your Car

Image via Flickr by Robert Couse-Baker

Image via Flickr by Robert Couse-Baker

Most vehicles made before 2000 were designed to use conventional motor oil. If you use this type of oil, you’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s suggested timeline for oil changes, which is most likely every 3,000 miles. You may want to upgrade to a synthetic or synthetic blend oil, however. These oils can remove the sludge that is left behind by conventional oils, they can lubricate better, and they may help extend the life of your engine.

For pre-1990 vehicles, switching to synthetic oil may pose a problem. Synthetic oils contain esters that newer engines can easily stand up to. However, older engines cannot. These esters can break down the seals inside an older engine more quickly than conventional oils can. If your seals are already breaking down, then the sludge from conventional oils could even be masking it. It’s best to talk with a mechanic before making the switch.

Car Manufacturers Recommendation

Most car manufacturers recommend synthetic oil for newer models. Some have recommended a switch to synthetic even for older vehicles that were originally designed for petroleum-based oils. The best way to know what type of oil is recommended for your vehicle is to check the owner’s manual, or you can call your local dealership to ask.

Driving Habits

The mileage and monthly guidelines for oil changes are only recommendations. You may need to change your oil more or less frequently, depending on your driving habits. If you regularly drive at least 20 minutes at highway speeds, then you won’t need to change your oil more frequently than the manufacturer recommends.

Your car’s engine receives the most wear during startup. If you take a lot of really short trips at slow speeds, this can lead to the premature breakdown of the lubricants in the oil. Another reason for an early oil change is stop-and-go traffic. City driving or freeway gridlock can take a toll on your engine and more frequent oil changes can help protect it.

Other driving habits can shorten the life of your motor oil as well, such as off-road driving, towing, and frequent idling.

More Questions About Your Car’s Oil Changes

Most car owners still have some questions when it comes to how often they need to change their oil. A lot of factors are involved, so how do you really know? Let’s break it down a bit more.

Can You Really Go 10,000 Miles?

Some oils are rated to go as far as 10,000 miles. Many mechanics wouldn’t recommend pushing it to that distance though. One reason being that after going so long between oil changes, it’s easy to forget to schedule an appointment to do so on time. Although some oils are rated for high mileage, it doesn’t mean that pushing the limits won’t damage your engine. Think about changing your oil at 7,500 miles. You’ll still be getting a great value, plus, you can feel confident that you’re protecting your car’s engine.

Why Change Your Oil More Frequently?

Some mechanics still recommend more frequent oil changes. Why? Your mechanic may want to keep an eye on other repairs, or it may be time for regular maintenance. Remember, a mechanic is also looking at the state of your battery, belts, hoses, tires, and other parts.

Should You Switch to Synthetic?

In many cases, switching to a fully synthetic or synthetic blend oil is recommended. In some instances, it might not be the best choice or it might not make a difference at all. It’s best to consult your dealership before making the switch so you know you’re making the right choice for your car or truck.

If it’s time for your next oil change or if you’re considering a switch to synthetic oil, call Oxmoor Ford today. Our experienced and friendly staff can answer your questions and make sure your vehicle is getting proper maintenance.