How often should I change my oil? Every 3,000 miles or every 3 months.” You’ve probably heard that advice for years—but does it still apply in 2025? Not quite.
Modern engines and advanced motor oils have changed the oil change game. Today, figuring out how often you should change your oil depends more on your driving habits, vehicle type, and oil quality than a one-size-fits-all rule.
Let’s break down the myths, look at the real numbers, and help you choose the right oil change interval to protect your engine without overpaying.
The 3,000-mile rule dates back to older engines and conventional motor oils. Today’s synthetic blends and full synthetics can last much longer.
According to AAA, modern synthetics can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes without losing protection.
Unless you drive under extreme conditions (towing, short trips, dusty environments), changing oil that often is wasteful—for your wallet and the environment.
In recent years, automakers have extended oil change intervals thanks to better engine design and superior oil formulations. According to Edmunds, most newer vehicles can go longer between changes without sacrificing engine health.
Most car manufacturers now recommend:
Check your owner’s manual or vehicle info display. Modern cars even feature oil life monitoring systems that tell you exactly when service is needed.
Brands like Toyota, Ford, and Honda all support extended intervals with synthetic oils under normal use.
Even if you don’t drive much, oil still breaks down over time. Moisture, temperature changes, and oxidation reduce oil effectiveness.
Truth: Oil can degrade in just 6–12 months, even if you only drive a few hundred miles.
This is especially true for hybrid and EVs with combustion engines that aren’t running daily.
A 2023 study from Mobil 1 found that over 60% of engine wear occurs during cold starts—meaning short trips and inconsistent engine temperatures drastically influence oil performance and lifespan.
Short trips and cold‑starts have been shown to accelerate engine wear and oil degradation
Source:
If you’re wondering how often you should change your oil, consider:
According to CarMD, the check engine light is one of the most common indicators related to oil issues. Consistently monitoring oil quality can help avoid over 20% of common engine faults.
Source:
CarMD Vehicle Health Index 2024 (PDF)
Watch for these signs that you may need an oil change soon:
If you’re unsure, a quick inspection at Ruben’s Tires can provide clarity.
“How often should I change my oil?” isn’t just a mileage question anymore. Your driving style, oil type, and vehicle design all matter.
Whether you drive daily or occasionally, the key is consistency. Stick to a maintenance schedule based on your specific use—not outdated rules.
At Ruben’s Tires, we help you choose the right oil and interval for your lifestyle. Our certified techs ensure clean, efficient engine performance with every visit.
Don’t guess—know when it’s time.
Book your oil change with Ruben’s Tires today for expert service, high-quality fluids, and trusted advice.
Drive farther. Run cleaner. Save smarter.
You should change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, based on your oil type, driving habits, and manufacturer guidelines.
No, the 3,000-mile rule is outdated. Most modern engines using synthetic oil can safely go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes.
Yes, you can go up to a year if you’re using full synthetic oil and driving under normal conditions. Still, it’s best to check oil quality regularly.
Skipping oil changes can cause engine sludge, reduced fuel efficiency, and permanent engine damage due to lack of lubrication and increased friction.
Yes, synthetic oil lasts longer and provides better protection, allowing longer intervals between changes—typically 7,500 to 10,000+ miles.
To check oil condition, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check for level, color, and texture. Dark or gritty oil needs changing.
Yes, even low-mileage cars need oil changes at least annually. Oil degrades over time due to moisture and oxidation.
Check your owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity and specification. Full synthetic is ideal for most modern vehicles and climates.
Sometimes, yes. Dirty or low oil can cause engine knocking or ticking, and an oil change may resolve the issue. Persistent noise needs a mechanic.
Yes, switching to synthetic oil is safe for nearly all vehicles. It improves performance and reduces sludge and wear in the long term. Yes, switching to synthetic oil is safe for most vehicles and can improve engine cleanliness and performance.
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