Valvoline.com

Do I need to change my motor oil every 3,000 miles?

Valvoline recommends changing oil every 3,000 miles. Most consumers (more than 80% of drivers, according to a State of California study) drive under what is considered severe driving conditions (stop and go, short trips, towing, or very hot or very cold temperatures). Auto manufacturers' oil change interval recommendations are dramatically shorter for severe driving conditions, with the majority recommending 3,750 miles or less and with 3,000 miles being the most common recommendation. Both oil and oil filters have less of a useful life under severe conditions due to increased dirt and other contaminants. So, changing the oil and filter every 3,000 miles is the best way to ensure engine health.

Do I have to change my oil filter every time I change the oil?

Yes. Valvoline recommends replacing the filter every time you change the oil following the oil change intervals recommended in your owner's manual. This eliminates any risk of contaminants trapped by the oil filter (e.g., dirt) from re-entering the oil.

Can I run longer between oil changes if I replace the oil filter?

Valvoline recommends changing the oil filter every 3,000 miles with the oil. Both oil and oil filters have less of a useful life under severe conditions due to increased dirt and other contaminants. So, changing the oil and filter every 3,000 miles is the best way to ensure engine health.

I heard that when motor oil becomes dark, that means it's time to change it. Is this true?

This is not true. You cannot determine the life of motor oil by looking at its appearance since it may change color for several reasons. To insure the best quality product, always follow the owner's manual guidelines for oil change intervals.