How Often Should You Change Your Engine Oil?

For most modern cars using full-synthetic oil, plan on changing the oil every 7,500–10,000 miles or about once a year—whichever comes first; if you drive in “severe” conditions (lots of short trips, extreme heat/cold, towing, dusty roads), shorten that to about 5,000 miles or every six months. Always follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the dashboard oil-life monitor, which takes your actual driving into account.

Why Oil-Change Intervals Are No Longer One-Size-Fits-All

The old 3,000-mile rule of thumb has been overtaken by better engines, tighter manufacturing tolerances, and higher-quality synthetic oils. Many vehicles now use oil-life monitoring systems (OLMs) that analyze factors like temperature, trip length, load, idle time, and driving style to estimate when oil truly needs replacement. As a result, recommended intervals vary widely by make, model, oil specification, and how and where you drive.

Understanding Oil-Life Monitors

Oil-life monitors don’t test the oil itself; they model oil degradation based on real-world use. When your display shows low or 0% oil life, it’s time for service. Most manufacturers also set a time limit—typically 12 months—so even if you drive very little, you may still need an annual change to address moisture and fuel dilution from short trips.

Typical Intervals by Vehicle

Most modern gasoline cars (full-synthetic)

Here are common guidance ranges from major automakers for normal driving, assuming the correct full-synthetic oil and filter are used. Your specific vehicle may differ; always confirm in the owner’s manual or maintenance schedule.

• Toyota/Lexus: Often 10,000 miles or 12 months with 0W-20 full synthetic on many models; some turbo or non-0W-20 applications may be shorter.
• Honda/Acura: Change when the Maintenance Minder hits 0% (commonly 7,500–10,000 miles) or at least annually.
• GM (Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Cadillac): Follow the OLM; many owners see 7,500–10,000 miles depending on use.
• Ford/Lincoln: Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor typically lands between 7,500–10,000 miles for normal service.
• Hyundai/Kia: Often 7,500 miles/12 months for normal service; severe service may require shorter intervals.
• Subaru: Commonly 6,000 miles/6 months on recent models, especially turbos.
• BMW/Mercedes/Audi/Volkswagen (U.S.): Typically 10,000 miles/12 months under Condition-Based Service or fixed intervals; some platforms vary.

These ranges reflect typical U.S. guidance; international markets may allow longer “flex” intervals when specific long-life oils are used.

Severe service: when to shorten your interval

If your routine fits “severe” or “special” operating conditions, most manufacturers recommend more frequent oil changes to counter faster oil degradation.

• Frequent short trips (especially under 5–10 miles) where the engine rarely fully warms.
• Stop-and-go urban driving or extended idling.
• Regular towing, hauling, or mountainous driving.
• Very hot or very cold climates.
• Dusty, sandy, or unpaved roads.
• High-performance driving or frequent turbo boost use.

Under these conditions, intervals of about 5,000 miles or six months are common, but check your manual; some vehicles specify even shorter severe-service schedules.

European “flex” intervals

Many European models support extended “flexible” intervals—sometimes up to 15,000 miles or longer—if specific long-life oils meeting ACEA and OEM standards (e.g., BMW Longlife, Mercedes-Benz MB approvals, VW 504/507) are used. In North America, intervals are often capped around 10,000 miles/12 months for warranty and operating conditions. Use only the exact oil spec your manual lists.

Turbocharged and GDI engines

Turbocharged and gasoline direct-injection (GDI) engines can be tougher on oil due to higher temperatures and potential fuel dilution. Many manufacturers still allow 7,500–10,000 miles under normal conditions, but you may benefit from the shorter end of that range—or from following the OLM closely—especially if you do short trips or spirited driving.

Hybrids and low-mileage drivers

Because hybrid engines cycle on and off, oil may not always reach full temperature, which can increase condensation and fuel dilution. Even with low annual mileage, an annual oil change is a safe baseline unless your OLM or manual says otherwise.

Diesel pickups and SUVs

Light-duty diesels often specify 5,000–10,000 miles depending on load, towing, and oil spec. Heavy towing or frequent idling typically shortens the interval. Always use the exact diesel-rated oil your manufacturer specifies.

Time vs. Mileage: Which Comes First?

Both matter. Oil ages with heat cycles and can accumulate moisture and fuel—even when you don’t drive much. For mostly short-trip or seasonal use, prioritize time (often six to 12 months) rather than stretching by mileage alone. If you drive far fewer miles than average, an annual change is a reliable practice unless your OLM indicates sooner.

Oil Type and Specification

Full-synthetic oils generally tolerate heat and oxidation better than conventional or blends and support longer intervals. However, the right specification is as important as “synthetic.” Look for the exact grade and spec listed in your manual (for example, 0W-20 meeting API SP/ILSAC GF-6 for many modern gasoline cars, or ACEA/OEM approvals for European models). Extended-drain oils can help, but do not exceed the limit set by your OLM or manufacturer.

Practical Maintenance Tips

The following practices help maximize engine life and keep you aligned with warranty terms and best maintenance standards.

• Check oil level monthly (more often on new or high-mileage engines) and top up as needed.
• Replace the oil filter at every oil change; use OEM or OEM-approved filters.
• Reset the oil-life monitor correctly after service.
• Keep service records and receipts; they matter for warranties and resale.
• Use the exact viscosity and specification listed in your manual.
• Dispose of used oil and filters properly at recycling centers or parts stores.
• If DIY, torque the drain plug to spec and replace crush washers where required.

Consistent, spec-correct service—plus good recordkeeping—protects your engine and preserves vehicle value.

What If I Drive an EV?

Battery-electric vehicles don’t have engine oil, though they do have other fluids (like gearbox oil or coolant) with separate service schedules. Plug-in hybrids and conventional hybrids still need engine-oil changes; follow the manual or OLM.

Bottom Line

Most modern cars on full-synthetic oil can safely go 7,500–10,000 miles or about a year between oil changes if driven under normal conditions. If your use is severe—short trips, towing, extreme temperatures, dusty roads—plan on roughly 5,000 miles or six months. When in doubt, follow the oil-life monitor or the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, and always use the exact oil type and specification required.

Does oil have to be changed every 3 months?

The “every 3,000 miles or every three months” rule is outdated because of advances in both engines and oil. Many automakers have oil-change intervals at 7,500 or even 10,000 miles and six or 12 months.

Can you go 2 years without changing oil?

No, you should not go two years without an oil change, as most manufacturers recommend a maximum of one year for oil changes, regardless of mileage, to prevent sludge buildup and engine damage. Skipping oil changes leads to increased engine wear, overheating, and eventual engine failure. To determine your specific needs, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and consider the type of oil used, as synthetic oils may have longer intervals but still require yearly replacement if the car isn’t driven regularly. 
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Two Years

• Moisture and Contamination: Moisture from condensation and pollutants from the combustion process accumulate in the oil. 
• Oil Degradation: Over time, oil breaks down, losing its ability to lubricate and cool the engine effectively. 
• Sludge Formation: Degraded oil can form sludge, a thick, tar-like substance that clogs oil passages and prevents proper lubrication. 

Consequences of Neglecting Oil Changes

• Increased Engine Wear: Without proper lubrication, engine components grind against each other, leading to accelerated wear and tear. 
• Overheating: Oil helps dissipate engine heat, and its degradation leads to increased engine temperatures. 
• Engine Failure: In extreme cases, the engine can seize or blow a gasket due to extreme heat and lack of lubrication. 
• Voided Warranty: Not adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule can void your vehicle’s warranty. 

What to Do Instead

1. Check Your Owner’s Manual: This is the most critical step, as it provides the manufacturer’s specific recommendations for oil changes. 
2. Consider Your Oil Type: Full synthetic oils generally offer longer intervals than conventional oils. 
3. Change Annually: Even if you drive infrequently, change your oil at least once a year. 
4. Use an Oil Life Monitor: Modern vehicles often have built-in oil life monitors that will alert you when service is needed. 

How often do you actually need an oil change?

You actually need an oil change based on the interval recommended in your car’s owner’s manual, typically 5,000 to 7,500 miles for conventional oil or 10,000 to 15,000 miles for synthetic oil, and at least once a year, even if you don’t drive much. Modern vehicles also have oil-life monitoring systems that use driving conditions to tell you when an oil change is due. 
Factors influencing your oil change interval:

• Car Manufacturer Recommendations: Opens in new tabAlways check your owner’s manual for the most accurate oil change intervals and recommendations for your specific vehicle. 
• Oil Type: Opens in new tabSynthetic oils last longer than conventional oils, allowing for extended mileage intervals. 
• Oil Life Monitoring System: Opens in new tabMany modern cars have a dashboard light or system that tracks your driving to determine when an oil change is needed. 
• Driving Conditions: Opens in new tabFactors like driving temperature, engine revolutions, and overall driving conditions are tracked by your car’s computer to help determine the optimal time for an oil change. 
• Time: Opens in new tabEven if you don’t drive much, engine oil degrades over time, so you should change your oil at least once a year. 

What the old 3,000-mile rule was for: 

• Older vehicles, older engine technology, and older oil formulations required more frequent oil changes to prevent premature wear.

How to determine your interval:

1. Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle. 
2. Pay attention to your car’s oil life monitor: The dashboard indicator will alert you when service is needed. 
3. Consider your driving habits: If you frequently drive in extreme conditions or short distances, your interval may need to be shorter than the recommended maximum. 

Is it good to change oil every 2 months?

You should get oil changed every 12 months (give or take a little) no matter the miles. Past that the oil starts to get contaminated by water from condensation and humidity. 3000 miles or 20000 miles, 12 months is really the limit with modern oils.