The evolution of the automobile has been amazing. From the early rickety models to modern computer controlled versions, things have changed a lot. That being said, friction and heat are still a threat to any car engine and have to be managed.
As any car owner well knows, lubricant is the best tool for fighting the ravages of friction and heat. This lubricant is, of course, better known as motor oil and it performs a vital function that keeps your car on the road.
Oil is an amazing substance. It can take an absolute thrashing in the harsh environment of an engine and yet still keep friction and heat at bay. After a bit, however, even oil will fail and thus must be changed out.
What answer immediately popped into your mind? I bet it was that the oil should be changed every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever came first. Right? Somewhere, an oil marketing executive has a big grin on their face.
The three month marketing slogan is simply not correct. It may never have been. Cars perform differently, which means the stress placed on the engine and oil will differ. Oils have also improved dramatically and now last longer.
The simple truth is there is no one standard mileage or time period that should be used for oil changes. A big Ford truck simple runs differently than a Honda Civic. The oil in the truck will need to be changed well before the oil in the Honda.
Still, we need some type of guideline right? Well, you have one. For men, this will be painful. Yes, we will have to read directions. In the owners manual for the car, we can find the information for the specific needs of our vehicle.
The manufacturer is actually going to designate a number of things regarding the oil. Yes, the number of miles between recommended changes will be there, but so will the weight of oil to be used and the recommended oil brand.
Now pay attention. The miles and brand of oil are important, but the information on the weight of oil to be used is absolutely critical. You can get the miles and brand wrong, but do not get the weight wrong under any circumstances.
If you can, try to go with synthetic oil for your car. They last much longer. A Mini Cooper, for instance, will go up to 17,000 miles between oil changes running on Castrol Synthetic. Not bad, eh?
A personal favorite of mine is Mobile 1. I’ve used this for years after a racing mechanic recommended it to me. I have to say I have experienced no engine problems since then and I drive a Jaguar! Pretty miraculous, eh?
Ultimately, you should follow the directions of your manufacturer on oil changes. They typically will be for 5,000 miles or more, which can save you a lot of money.