Oil Change Frequency: Synthetic vs Conventional
The Great Oil Debate: Synthetic vs. Conventional
One of the most common questions we hear from vehicle owners is about oil change frequency. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of oil you use, your vehicle, and your driving habits.
Conventional Oil
Traditional mineral oil has been used in vehicles for decades. If you use conventional oil, you should plan for an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every 3 months, whichever comes first.
Pros: Less expensive, readily available
Cons: Shorter service intervals, breaks down faster in extreme temperatures
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is engineered to provide superior protection and longevity. With synthetic oil, you can typically go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes, or even longer depending on your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.
Pros: Longer intervals, better protection, improved performance in extreme temperatures
Cons: Higher cost per change, though fewer changes needed offset the price
Semi-Synthetic (Blend) Oil
Blend oils combine conventional and synthetic oil for a middle ground. Typical service intervals are 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
What Does Your Vehicle Manual Say?
The best source for oil change intervals is your vehicle's owner manual. Manufacturers test their vehicles with different oil types and specify the optimal intervals for best performance and longevity.
Factors That Affect Oil Change Intervals
- Driving Conditions: Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and highway driving can affect intervals.
- Vehicle Age: Older vehicles may need more frequent changes.
- Engine Type: Turbocharged engines and high-performance engines may have different requirements.
- Towing: If you tow trailers, consult your manual for adjusted intervals.
Regular Oil Changes Save Money
Regular oil changes are one of the most cost-effective preventive maintenance tasks you can do. Clean oil keeps your engine clean, reduces wear, and can extend your engine's life significantly.
Our mobile oil change service makes it easy to stay on top of this important maintenance. We use quality oils and can recommend the right type for your vehicle and driving habits.
