Oil Change Myths – Fact or Fiction

As most people can attest, an oil change is vital to the continued functionality and performance of a vehicle. Over time, a variety of myths have come to light involving the process which require attention and correction. In this article, we will outline a few common old wives tales regarding this time honored maintenance task.

1 – Oil must be changed every 3000 miles
Fact – Lighter oils have been seen to contribute to engine health, resulting in an extension between an oil change.

Back in the day… before oils consisted of detergents, emollients, and other types of additives, 3000 mile maintenance marks were necessary. With oils becoming lighter, they are able to retain viscosity. As such, engines will remain cleaner for longer. These days, it’s rarely an issue for newer vehicles to go 5,000 or even 6,000 miles between routine maintenance. However, vehicles that use oil to lubricate additional components, such as the dear timing chain should continue to stick by the 3,000 mile rule.

2 – Darker Colors In Oil Equate To It Being Unsafe and Dirty
Fact – It is normal for the fluid to darken. In fact, darkening generally occurs as soon as a week after maintenance.

Fluid darkness does not mean that an oil change is required. Drivers can check out a detailed analysis of the fluid in order to find out about the composition and contamination percentage, though the process is often quite costly and rarely necessary. Take a look at the recommendations outlined in your vehicle’s owner’s manual and follow the instructions provided there. This will help you keep your vehicle functioning properly for years to come.

3 – Maintenance should be performed on the same schedule that you drive
Fact – Maintenance schedules will generally depend on your gasoline’s composition.
In the U.S. oil refiners manufacture a gasoline grad with a much higher sulfur content than Japanese and Europeans. As such, drivers may be required to have their maintenance performed more often when driving in the United States than in parts of Europe and Asia.

4 – Seasons Change and So Does The Oil
Fact – 10W40 is best for warmer climates, whereas 5W30 is safe for year-round use.

In the vast majority of cases, drivers will be safe using 5W50 year ‘round, even in places where the temperature is much colder.

5 – Synthetics are best at preventing sludge buildup
Fact – There is not an oil in existence that can prevent sludge

The formation of sludge is the natural result of the combustion process inside the engine. While fresh fluids are much better at picking up left over particles, as they age, they will become less effective. When this happens, the fluids will drop particles, resulting in sludge. Though synthetic brands have been shown to hold onto these particles for longer periods of time, there is not an oil in existence that can prevent sludge completely.