The 3,000 Mile Oil Change Myth

[jeffrey]

According to a recent study by the California Integrated Waste Management Board, 73 percent of California drivers change their oil more frequently than required. This same scenario no doubt repeats itself across the country. Besides wasting money, this translates into unnecessary consumption of $100-a-barrel oil, much of it imported.

Using 2005 data, the Board estimates that Californians alone generate about 153.5 million gallons of waste oil annually, of which only about 60 percent is recycled. Used motor oil poses the greatest environmental risk of all automotive fluids because it is insoluble, persistent, and contains heavy metal and toxic chemicals. One gallon of used oil can foul the taste of one million gallons of water.

It’s been a misconception for years that engine oil should be changed every 3000 miles, even though most auto manufacturers now recommend oil changes at 5,000, 7,000, or even 10,000 mile intervals under normal driving conditions...

The-3-000-Mile-Oil-Change-Myth- Yahoo! Autos Article Page

[rennigade]

I just bought a new car and they told me to do it every 5,000 - 7,000 miles.

[MonkeyMama]

Our mechanic busted this myth for us 30 years ago. And we keep our cars forever. The 6 month schedule works fine.

I hadn't realized new cars needed even less frequent oil changes. It makes sense though. I have a 2005 Dodge and the oil doesn't seem to get near as "dirty" as it used to on our older cars, after 6 months. I guess I should read the manual and see what is recommended.

I think you can also keep in mind that manufacturers tend to recommend more than is really warranted. So this is rather eye opening.

[DebbieL]

I've NEVER changed my oil as often as the oil change places want you to (and have had no problems whatsoever). I went as long as about 15 months once. I don't drive a tremendous amount (about 10,000km/year). Once every 9 months to 1 year was often enough for me to change the oil. When you get it done they always want you to have it done again in 3 months. Total BS in my opinion.