How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Shelves of fluids and parts beside a silver car with its hood open while a technician works on the engine — Fluids and common parts on hand next to the service bays.

The old "every 3,000 miles" rule doesn't apply to most modern cars. Today the right answer depends on your vehicle, the oil it's designed for and how you drive.

Start with your owner's manual

Your manufacturer lists an oil change interval and the exact oil specification for your engine. Many modern cars using synthetic oil call for changes somewhere in the range of 5,000 to 10,000 miles, and many have an oil-life monitor that calculates it for you. Whatever the interval, also follow the time limit (often six months or a year), because oil ages even when the car sits.

Do you drive under "severe" conditions?

Most manuals list a shorter, severe-service schedule. It typically applies if you regularly:

Make lots of short trips where the engine never fully warms up
Sit in stop-and-go traffic
Tow, carry heavy loads or drive in dusty conditions
Drive in very hot weather

Plenty of Orange County drivers check more than one of those boxes: think quick runs to the beach and the store, plus rush hour on the 405.

Check your oil level between changes

Some engines consume a little oil normally. Check the dipstick (or the electronic level gauge) once a month. Low oil is far more damaging than slightly old oil.

Use the right oil

Use the viscosity and specification listed in your manual. The wrong oil can affect engine protection and, on some cars, variable valve timing.

We can look up the correct interval and oil for your car. See oil change & maintenance or call (714) 962-2400.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Always follow your owner’s manual and get symptoms checked in person.