Oil Change Truths and Myths

Similar to any product that’s been out for decades, there are plenty of myths when it comes to motor oil. Some of this could be attributed to driver’s general ignorance for how their car operates, or it could also be attributed to sneaky mechanics looking to grab an extra buck.

Before you decided to head out for a cheap oil change, take a look at our myth debunker below. This way you’ll learn the various ways to best utilize your motor oil…

Oil Needs to be Changed Every 3,000 Miles: False

The average amount of miles a car can travel before needing an oil change is 7,800 miles… more than twice the assumed number! 3,000 miles may have been accurate years ago, but advanced oil and engine technology makes that estimate very outdated.

While it may be tough for you to ignore your mechanic’s recommendations ( just remember that he’s looking out for himself, too), there are better options to rely on when it comes to knowing when to change your oil. The car’s owner manual should give an accurate figure, and many driver’s can now rely on the vehicle’s flashing, light-up alert whenever the oil gets low.

As Matt Snider, the project engineer of GM’s Fuels and Lubricants Group, told Philip Reed of Edmunds.com, changing the oil every 3,000 miles would essentially be wasting “good oil.”

“If customers always just stayed with the 3,000-mile recommendation, there’d be these great strides in the robustness of oil that oil companies have made [that] wouldn’t be utilized,” Snider said.

It’s Not Necessary to Change Oil Before a Road Trip: True

That is, of course, assuming your car isn’t running low. If your scheduled oil change (as suggested above) doesn’t take place during your road trip, there’s no need to worry. If the oil will inevitably need to be changed during the long drive, then it’s a good idea to get it switched beforehand.

As Dan Edmunds, the director of vehicle testing at Edmunds.com, explained, if you will need an oil change during your vacation, it’s a good idea to get it changed about a week before the trip. That way you can make sure everything’s working in tip-top shape for when you’re cruising across the country.

Black Oil is an Indication That a Change is Necessary: False

You’ve heard it before: take a look at the dipstick, and if there’s black oil, go through with the change. This undervalues how productive engine oil can be. These products are meant to get dark, as dirt and grime are continually being filtered through the system.

What’s more important is the consistency of the oil. If the lubricant seems to be getting thick and sludge-like, then it’s clearly time for a change.

When you think about it, these tips are pretty obvious. However, people are fooled everyday by the apparent complexity of their engine and motor oil. If you’re still confused about when to get your oil changed, head down to a DePaula dealership and talk with one of their knowledgeable staff members.