Scheduling Motor Oil & Filter Change Intervals
Most vehicle owners will question the wisdom of service professionals when they recommend oil change intervals. The technician will often recommend oil changes based on the car manufacturer's guidelines for proper vehicle maintenance under normal conditions. This is good advice, especially during the factory warranty period.
The gray area lies in more general recommendations defining normal vs. severe service for oil and filter changes. Additionally, the weather conditions and other environmental factors, as well as the type of oil and filter need to be considered.
With this in mind, it can be difficult to determine the optimum amount of mileage and length of time recommended between oil changes. So we have compiled a couple of lists to help review what needs to be considered when scheduling your next oil and filter change.
Considerations For Shortening The Drain Intervals:
Short Driving Distances -- does not allow the motor oil to properly warm which invites condensation into the crankcase. This creates contaminants that will compromise, and eventually degrade the oil.
Stop & Go Driving -- can be stressful on the motor, increasing heat and evaporation loss, as well as depleting the antioxidants that maintain oil quality.
Environmental Conditions -- extreme hot or cold weather can be tuff on an engine promoting evaporation loss or condensation which will shorten the life of the oil. Also, road dust and wind blown debris can contaminant the oil.
Turbo Chargers -- although they provide additional power and performance, they run very hot which can contribute to oil degradation.
Towing Or Heavy Duty Use -- the stress of moving heavy loads can increase oil temperature and compromise the oil.
High Mileage & Older Motors -- tend to allow more contaminants to enter into the combustion chamber and crankcase, and eventually into the motor oil.
Length Of Service -- if you plan on keeping the vehicle for an extended period, you may want to consider minimizing the risk of damage from wear metals in the oil by changing it more frequently.
Type Of Oil & Filter -- conventional motor oils and paper filters need to be changed more often. Most need to be changed within 6 months or 5,000 miles.
Considerations For Extending The Drain Intervals:
Highway Miles -- long highway trips are easiest on the motor and the oil.
Newer Motors -- run much cleaner than older motors and allow for extended drain intervals.
Length Of Service -- if you replace your vehicle often, you may want to extend your oil changes near the maximum recommended by the manufacturer.
Type of Oil & Filter -- full synthetic motor oils better resist thermal breakdown and allow for extended oil changes. They work best when paired with synthetic media oil filters that perform better and last longer than paper elements.
In summary, there is a lot to consider when scheduling your next oil change, including the age and type of vehicle, the driving conditions, environmental conditions, length of service, and type of oil and filter installed.