How Often Should I Change the Oil In My Car? - Select Synthetics - AMSOIL Authorized Dealer

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How Often Should I Change the Oil In My Vehicle?

"Oil Drain Intervals"

 
 

Your Oil Change Intervals (or Oil Drain Intervals) will depend on a number of different factors. The subject of Oil Change Intervals is a hotly debated topic that even the so-called 'experts' can’t seem to agree on. The truth is: there is no magical one-size-fits-all number. So the simple answer is: "it depends".

Some of the factors that will determine your Oil Drain Intervals include:

The ‘type’ of oil used: Synthetic Oil allows for significantly longer drain intervals then Conventional Oil – especially high-quality extended drain 100% Synthetic Oils, such as AMSOIL Signature Series (not all Synthetic Oils are created equal).

Driving conditions (normal or severe): For instance, extensive idling, driving in stop-and-go traffic, repeated short distance trips of less than 5 miles, driving in very cold, very hot, very humid, or very dusty environments, towing a trailer, will require more frequent oil changes. (Check your Owner’s Manual for more info on severe driving conditions.)

The make, model, year, and 'engine type' of your car: Because of technological advances in modern engine materials, design, and built, as well as significant improvements in engine oil formulations, recommended oil change intervals for new vehicles have become considerably longer...

However, if your car has a Turbo Gasoline Direct-injection (T-GDi) engine for instance, you will need to change the oil more frequently then you would on a non-GDi or non-turbo engine.

Another factor that will impact the length of your Oil Drain Intervals is the size/capacity of the vehicle's Oil Sump. A smaller sump (say less than 5 liters) will require more frequent drain intervals as the oil will become over-saturated with contaminants sooner than it would with a larger sump.

The bottom line is, the recommended Oil Drain Interval will be different for different people and different vehicles.

One thing that is certain however, is that the 3,000 mi/5,000 km recommendation is a thing of the past.


NOTE: If your vehicle is still under warranty, it is advisable to follow the Oil Drain Interval from the appropriate "service schedule" outlined in your Owner's Manual.

Now that said, in America, the federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act protects your freedom to choose the brand of parts and lubricants you think is best. It also protects your right to extend Oil Change Intervals beyond what's given in your Owner's Manual without fear of voiding your factory warranty.

1- It is illegal to tie warranty coverage to whichever brand of parts or lubricants you use. Manufacturers that do so must provide the parts or lubricants free of charge.

2- You have the freedom to choose how you protect your vehicles and equipment, including use of products formulated for extended drain intervals.

3- Manufacturers can’t deny warranty coverage without showing the aftermarket part or lubricant caused the failure.

AdditionallyAMSOIL products are Warranty Secure, keeping your factory warranty intact. They are high-performance replacements for vehicle/equipment manufacturer-branded products. That's one more reason we've earned the trust of hardcore enthusiasts across North America.
AMSOIL is WARRANTY SECURE

Like our products, the AMSOIL Limited Warranty is built with an extra measure of protection. While some other oil companies guarantee their products only until you reach a specified mileage, we don't place restrictions on our warranty coverage based on total vehicle miles. We stand behind our products for as long as you use them.

See also this FTC article:  Auto Warranties & Routine Maintenance

Personally, I change the oil in my vehicles twice a year, regardless of mileage, using AMSOIL Signature Series.

On my 2014 Sorento (3.3L non-turbo GDi V6), I only change my oil twice a year and have gone anywhere from 10,000-15,000 km between oil changes (I have done this on my 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited since it was new. It now has ~400,000 km on it and it still runs "like new" (the body is starting to fall apart though). I have gone as much as 20,000 km between drains on my Jeep. It still doesn't burn/use any oil between drains.

NOTE: If you plan on doing your own oil and filter changes, or have them done by a 'third party' - such as a Quick Lube shop or an Independent shop - be sure to keep all your receipts and detailed records.

Also, you should always change the Oil Filter every single time you change your oil. AMSOIL Full-flow Oil Filters feature advanced full synthetic media that traps and holds a greater amount of small, wear-causing contaminants compared to conventional filters. They provide extended service intervals (up to 40,000 km/one year) for increased convenience, while helping reduce engine wear. They also have one of the best efficiency ratings in the automotive market.

And don't forget to also regularly monitor the oil level between changes, adding top-up oil if/when needed.

Lastly, don't forget to also regularly monitor your Air Filter and change it at the recommended intervals or when dirty.



 
 
 
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