Used Motor Oil

Debunked: The 3000 Mile Oil Change Is a Myth

Needing to change your car's oil at 3,000 miles is a myth. Many cars today can go longer without affecting engine wear. Automakers are regularly recommending oil changes at 5,000, 7,000 or even 10,000 miles based on driving conditions.

Yet research conducted by the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) shows that nearly three-quarters of Californian drivers change their motor oil more often than automaker recommendations. Following the 3,000 mile myth generates millions of gallons of waste oil every year that can pollute California's natural resources.

Do your part to help keep California green. Always check your vehicle's user manual for guidelines on when to change your oil. It will save you money, time and help the environment too. And that's a change we can all get behind.

• What's Being Said
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Oil Change Intervals for the Most Popular Vehicles (Adobe PDF, 25 KB). This list covers the most popular 20 vehicles in the U.S. from 2000-2007.
• Listen to the "Auto Debunkers" radio public service announcement. (Windows Media, 40 seconds).

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Disclaimer: Please check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations for how often you should change your oil. The CIWMB does not make recommendations regarding oil change frequency for any specific make or model of vehicle, and is not liable for any damages caused by the failure to follow manufacturer's recommendations and specifications.