What to know
- The answer to this question varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of oil, the age of the engine, and the driving conditions.
- If you use synthetic oil in a newer engine and drive mostly on the highway, your oil may last up to 20,000 miles.
- However, if you use conventional oil in an older engine and drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, your oil may need to be changed more frequently.
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine cool. But how long can engine oil really last? The answer to this question varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of oil, the age of the engine, and the driving conditions.
Types of Engine Oil
There are two main types of engine oil: conventional and synthetic. Conventional oil is made from refined crude oil, while synthetic oil is made from chemically engineered hydrocarbons. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, but it offers a number of advantages, including:
- Longer life: Synthetic oil can last up to twice as long as conventional oil.
- Better protection: Synthetic oil provides better protection against wear and tear.
- Improved fuel economy: Synthetic oil can help improve fuel economy by reducing friction.
Age of the Engine
The age of the engine can also affect how long engine oil lasts. Newer engines are more efficient than older engines, which means they produce less wear and tear on the oil. As a result, engine oil can last longer in newer engines.
Driving Conditions
The driving conditions can also affect how long engine oil lasts. If you drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, your oil will break down more quickly than if you drive mostly on the highway. This is because stop-and-go traffic causes the oil to heat up and cool down repeatedly, which can cause it to lose its viscosity.
Recommended Oil Change Intervals
Most car manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, some manufacturers recommend longer oil change intervals, such as 10,000 or 15,000 miles. If you drive in severe conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, you may need to change your oil more frequently.
Signs That Your Oil Needs to Be Changed
There are a few signs that indicate that your oil needs to be changed, including:
- Dark-colored oil
- Sludgy oil
- Low oil level
- Burning smell
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get your oil changed.
Can Engine Oil Really Last 20,000 Miles?
So, can engine oil really last 20,000 miles? The answer is yes, but it depends on a number of factors, including the type of oil, the age of the engine, and the driving conditions. If you use synthetic oil in a newer engine and drive mostly on the highway, your oil may last up to 20,000 miles. However, if you use conventional oil in an older engine and drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, your oil may need to be changed more frequently.
The Bottom Line
The best way to determine how often you need to change your oil is to consult your car’s owner’s manual. The owner’s manual will provide you with the recommended oil change interval for your specific vehicle.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: How often should I change my oil?
A: Most car manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, some manufacturers recommend longer oil change intervals, such as 10,000 or 15,000 miles. Consult your car’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval for your specific vehicle.
Q: What type of oil should I use?
A: The type of oil you should use depends on the age of your engine and the driving conditions. If you have a newer engine and drive mostly on the highway, you can use synthetic oil. If you have an older engine or drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, you may want to use conventional oil.
Q: What are the signs that my oil needs to be changed?
A: There are a few signs that indicate that your oil needs to be changed, including:
- Dark-colored oil
- Sludgy oil
- Low oil level