How often do you usually need an oil change?

For most modern cars running synthetic oil, plan on an oil change every 7,500–10,000 miles or every 6–12 months, whichever comes first; if you drive in “severe” conditions (lots of short trips, heavy traffic, towing, extreme heat/cold, dusty roads), shorten that to about 3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months. Always follow your owner’s manual and your vehicle’s oil-life monitor if equipped, as some vehicles can safely go longer—up to 15,000 miles—on approved long-life synthetic oils.

What automakers recommend today

Automakers have stretched intervals over the past decade thanks to tighter engines, better filtration, and synthetic oils. Many mainstream gasoline vehicles now specify 7,500–10,000 miles (or about 12 months) between changes when using the correct synthetic oil. Several brands also use oil-life monitoring systems that calculate interval based on your actual driving, temperature, and engine load.

European models often pair long-life oils with variable service intervals; in some markets they may allow roughly 10,000–15,000 miles or up to 24 months, but North American schedules are typically capped at 10,000 miles or 12 months. The bottom line: the correct interval for your car is the one in your maintenance guide, with the oil specification it calls for.

What shortens your oil-change interval

Manufacturers define “severe” or “special operating” conditions that degrade oil faster. If these match your driving, change oil more often than the normal schedule.

• Frequent short trips (under 5–10 miles), where the engine rarely fully warms
• Stop-and-go traffic, extended idling, or rideshare/delivery use
• Towing, hauling, mountainous driving, or track use
• Very hot or very cold climates
• Dusty or unpaved roads and construction zones
• Turbocharged and direct-injected engines prone to fuel dilution
• Older, high-mileage engines or known oil-consumption issues

If several of these apply, consider 3,000–5,000-mile intervals or follow the “severe service” schedule in your manual.

How to know it’s time to change the oil

Beyond mileage, several cues can tell you an oil change is due sooner.

• Oil-life monitor or maintenance minder indicates “Service Due” or low percentage
• Time limit reached (commonly 6–12 months), even with low mileage
• Dipstick shows oil below the safe mark, or the oil is thick, gritty, or very dark
• Fuel smell in the oil (possible fuel dilution) or metallic shimmer (wear debris)
• Engine runs noisier than usual, idles roughly, or you notice performance changes
• Warning lights for oil pressure or engine service

If any of these occur, don’t wait for the mileage to catch up—change the oil and filter and investigate the cause.

Special cases

Electric vehicles (EVs)

Battery-electric vehicles don’t have engine oil and don’t need oil changes. They still require periodic services for coolant (battery/drive unit), brake fluid, cabin filters, and tires.

Hybrids and plug-in hybrids

They use engine oil. Intervals are similar to non-hybrid versions, but time-based limits matter because the engine may run less. Short, cold trips still count as severe duty; follow the manual’s schedule.

Diesel engines

Light-duty diesels typically call for 5,000–10,000-mile changes depending on use and the oil-life monitor. Always use the exact diesel oil specification (e.g., API CK-4, ACEA C3) required for your engine and emissions system.

High-performance and turbocharged engines

Heat and fuel dilution can be tougher on oil. Many owners and some manufacturers opt for 5,000–7,500-mile intervals, and even shorter after track days. Use only the approved synthetic oil grade and spec.

What to ask for at an oil change

A thorough service prevents problems later. Confirm these items with your shop or checklist if you DIY.

• The correct oil grade and specification for your engine (e.g., 0W-20 API SP/ILSAC GF-6, GM dexos1 Gen 3, or the required ACEA spec)
• A quality new oil filter, and a new drain-plug washer if specified
• Proper torque on the drain plug and no overfilling
• Oil-life monitor reset and service sticker/date noted
• Fluid top-offs (coolant, washer fluid), and quick visual checks for leaks
• Tire rotation if due and a brief inspection of belts, hoses, and air filter
• Environmentally responsible disposal/recycling of used oil and filters

Documenting the service and using the correct oil spec protect your warranty and engine longevity.

Costs and oil types

Pricing varies by region and vehicle: conventional oil changes typically run around $35–$60, while full synthetic services commonly cost $70–$130 or more, especially for engines with larger sump capacities or specialty long-life oils. DIY costs less but require correct oil and filter selection and proper disposal. Always match the manual’s viscosity (such as 0W-20, 5W-30, or 0W-16) and approval standard (API/ILSAC, dexos, or ACEA). Cutting corners on oil quality can lead to expensive engine issues.

Quick reference: typical intervals by vehicle/use

Use these ranges as general guidance only; defer to your owner’s manual and oil-life monitor for your specific vehicle.

• Modern gasoline engines with synthetic oil: 7,500–10,000 miles or 12 months (some up to 15,000 miles with approved long-life oil)
• Older engines or conventional oil: 3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months
• Severe-duty driving (short trips, heavy traffic, towing, extreme temps, dusty): 3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months
• Light-duty diesel: 5,000–10,000 miles or per oil-life monitor and spec
• European long-life systems: roughly 10,000–15,000 miles or up to 24 months where specified

These bands capture common practice, but the right interval depends on your engine design, oil specification, and how and where you drive.

How to extend engine life between changes

Small habits can make oil last its intended interval and keep your engine healthy.

• Check oil level monthly and before long trips; top up with the exact same spec
• Fix leaks promptly and watch for sudden consumption changes
• Use high-quality filters and the precise oil grade/spec your manual lists
• Let the engine reach operating temperature on most drives; avoid constant short trips
• Keep the cooling system and air filter in good condition
• Follow software updates, recalls, and technical service bulletins for your model

Attentive maintenance helps your oil do its job and can prevent costly repairs down the line.

Summary

Most modern cars on synthetic oil need an oil change about every 7,500–10,000 miles or 6–12 months, with some capable of longer intervals when using the exact long-life oil specified. If you drive in severe conditions—short trips, heavy traffic, towing, extreme temperatures, or dusty roads—shorten to 3,000–5,000 miles or 6 months. Trust your owner’s manual and oil-life monitor, use the correct oil specification and filter, and don’t ignore time-based limits if you drive few miles.

How often does a car need an oil change after?

5,000 to 7,500 miles
It used to be accepted practice to perform an oil change every 3,000 miles but modern lubricants have changed that. Today, many carmakers have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Also, if your car requires full-synthetic oil, it could even go as far as 15,000 miles between services.

Is 2 years too long for an oil change?

No, you should not go two years without an oil change, as most automakers recommend changing oil at least once a year, regardless of mileage. While some modern vehicles with full synthetic oil driven sparingly on long highway trips might get by for two years, doing so risks accelerated engine wear, reduced performance, and potential damage from oil breakdown and accumulation of contaminants and byproducts of combustion, even when the car is not in use. 
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Two Years

• Oil Degradation: Oil breaks down over time due to heat, friction, and pollutants, even when the car is not driven extensively. 
• Contaminants: Over time, oil collects moisture and combustion byproducts like acids, which can corrode engine parts and reduce the oil’s lubricating ability. 
• Reduced Performance: Neglecting oil changes can lead to increased fuel consumption, a smoky exhaust, unusual engine noises, and overall reduced engine performance. 
• Short-Term vs. Long-Term Loss: While you might avoid the cost of an oil change in the short term, in the long term, you risk significant engine wear and damage. 

What to Do Instead

• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the best source for the correct oil change interval for your specific make and model. 
• Check for Time or Mileage Limits: Even if you don’t drive much, manufacturers typically have a time limit for oil changes, such as one year, that should not be exceeded. 
• Consider Oil Type and Usage: High-quality synthetic oils offer longer life, but even with these, the oil will degrade over time. Your driving conditions also matter; frequent short trips and idling degrade oil faster than regular, long highway drives. 

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.