How Often Should You Change the Oil in Your Car

For most modern cars using synthetic oil, change the oil every 7,500–10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or every 6–12 months, whichever comes first. Always follow your owner’s manual and any oil-life monitoring system in the vehicle, and use a shorter interval if you drive in “severe” conditions like frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, towing, or dusty environments. While older guidance suggested 3,000 miles, today’s engines and oils typically allow longer intervals—though not for every vehicle or use case.

The Industry Baseline in 2025

Thanks to tighter engine tolerances and improved synthetic oils, many manufacturers now set normal-service intervals in the 7,500–10,000-mile range, with annual time caps to protect against oil aging. Some European brands with approved long-life oils allow even longer mileage within their service systems, but they still impose a time limit. Your exact schedule hinges on the vehicle’s design, approved oil specification, and how and where you drive.

Typical Intervals by Vehicle and Oil Type

The following categories outline the most common oil-change intervals you’ll see today and how they apply to different vehicles and driving scenarios.

• Modern cars on full synthetic oil: 7,500–10,000 miles (12,000–16,000 km) or 6–12 months, whichever comes first.
• European models with manufacturer-approved long-life oil: often 10,000–15,000 miles (16,000–24,000 km) with a time cap (commonly up to 1 year in many markets); always verify your specific model’s service program.
• Older vehicles or those using conventional/blend oils: typically 3,000–5,000 miles (4,800–8,000 km) or 3–6 months.
• High-performance/turbocharged engines, or vehicles frequently driven hard: expect shorter intervals—often 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or less—per the owner’s manual.
• Hybrids: often similar to modern gasoline cars (around 7,500–10,000 miles), but frequent short, cold starts can justify annual changes regardless of mileage.

Use these ranges as a starting point, but defer to the owner’s manual and any onboard oil-life system. Warranty requirements generally mandate following the manufacturer’s schedule and using the exact oil specification it lists.

The Biggest Variable: Your Driving Conditions

Automakers publish “normal” and “severe” schedules. Many drivers unknowingly fall into the severe category, which shortens intervals due to added thermal and chemical stress on the oil.

• Frequent short trips (under 5–10 miles/8–16 km), where oil rarely reaches full temperature.
• Extended idling or stop-and-go commuting in heavy traffic.
• Towing, hauling, mountainous routes, or high-speed, high-load driving.
• Extreme heat or cold climates.
• Dusty, sandy, or unpaved-road environments.
• Track days or regularly spirited driving.

If several of these apply, follow the severe-service interval—often 3,000–5,000 miles or the time limit specified by the manufacturer.

Let the Car Tell You: Oil-Life Monitors

Many vehicles (e.g., GM’s Oil Life System, Honda’s Maintenance Minder, Ford’s IOLM) use engine data and drive-cycle calculations to estimate remaining oil life. When the system prompts a change, schedule it soon, and don’t forget that time limits still apply—most manufacturers recommend changing oil at least annually even if the monitor hasn’t tripped. Never reset the indicator without actually changing the oil and filter, and keep records for warranty and resale value.

If You Drive Infrequently

Oil degrades with time due to moisture, fuel dilution, and additive depletion, even at low mileage. If you drive very little, change oil roughly every 12 months, and consider taking an occasional longer drive (20–30 minutes at highway speeds) to fully warm the engine and evaporate condensation.

Signs You Should Change Sooner

Beyond mileage and time, these indicators suggest the oil may be past its prime and should be changed sooner.

• Dashboard oil or maintenance light, or oil-life reading at or below 10%.
• Noticeable engine noise (ticking/knocking) or rough running that coincides with overdue oil.
• Oil that smells strongly of fuel, looks gritty, or appears unusually thick (color alone isn’t decisive).
• Elevated operating temperatures under load or repeated use in extreme conditions.
• Recent heavy towing, track use, or severe dust exposure.

If you encounter these conditions, don’t wait for the next scheduled interval—changing early is cheap insurance compared with engine wear.

Practical Tips to Get It Right

Following a few best practices will help ensure your oil changes protect the engine and maintain your warranty.

1. Check your owner’s manual first; follow the normal vs. severe schedule that matches your use.
2. Use the exact oil grade and specification the manufacturer requires (e.g., API, ILSAC, ACEA, or brand-specific approvals).
3. Replace the oil filter at every oil change with a quality, correct-spec part.
4. Respect the time cap (often 1 year) even if you drive few miles.
5. Monitor oil level monthly and top up as needed; consumption can increase before the next interval.
6. Keep dated receipts and a log—important for warranties and resale.
7. If extending intervals near the top of the range, consider a periodic used oil analysis (UOA) to verify oil condition.
8. Use a new drain-plug washer when required and torque to spec to prevent leaks.
9. Recycle used oil and filters at approved drop-off sites or service centers.

These steps help align real-world use with manufacturer guidance, preserving engine health while minimizing unnecessary service.

Common Myths, Debunked

Old rules of thumb can lead to overspending or, worse, under-servicing in demanding conditions. Here are frequent misconceptions to avoid.

• “Change every 3,000 miles” applies to older engines and conventional oils—modern cars on synthetic often go much longer.
• “Synthetic oil always lasts 15,000 miles” is not universal; follow your car’s approved specs and service schedule.
• “Black oil means it’s bad” is misleading; oil darkens as it suspends contaminants—condition depends on use and additives.
• “Once you use synthetic, you can’t switch back” is false; compatibility depends on meeting the right specification.
• “EVs need engine oil changes” is incorrect; fully electric vehicles have no engine oil, though they do need other fluid services.

Relying on the owner’s manual, approved oil specs, and your driving profile is more reliable than one-size-fits-all advice.

Cost and Environmental Angle

Changing oil too often wastes money and resources; stretching too far risks costly wear. Using the correct interval—and recycling used oil—balances engine protection with environmental responsibility. Many service centers and parts stores accept used oil and filters at no charge.

Summary

Most modern cars on synthetic oil can safely go 7,500–10,000 miles or 6–12 months between oil changes; severe driving may require 3,000–5,000 miles. Trust your owner’s manual and oil-life monitor, use the specified oil and filter, honor time limits if you drive infrequently, and shorten intervals for harsh conditions. Keeping records and checking oil levels monthly will help ensure long engine life and warranty compliance.

Does oil need to be changed every 6 months?

Yes, your engine oil should be changed at least every 6 months, even if you haven’t driven the recommended mileage, because oil degrades over time due to moisture, contaminants, and oxidation, which can lead to engine damage. The ideal interval can vary, so check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations, but a general rule of thumb for most gasoline engines is to change the oil every 5,000-7,500 miles or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first. 
Why Oil Needs Timely Changes

• Deterioration: Over time, oil breaks down and loses its effectiveness, regardless of how much you drive. 
• Contaminants: Combustion creates moisture, carbon, and other contaminants that build up in the oil. 
• Moisture and Acid: Even short trips cause moisture to accumulate in the engine, which, when combined with petroleum-based oil, can form corrosive acids, according to Quora. 
• Oxidation: The oil can oxidize over time, which darkens the oil and makes it less effective at lubricating the engine. 

Factors Affecting Oil Change Intervals

• Vehicle Type: Opens in new tabSome manufacturers may suggest more frequent changes for diesel engines, turbocharged engines, or high-performance vehicles. 
• Oil Type: Opens in new tabSynthetic oils typically last longer than conventional oils, but still benefit from regular changes. 
• Driving Conditions: Opens in new tabSevere driving conditions like frequent short trips, towing heavy loads, or driving in dusty environments can necessitate more frequent oil changes. 

What to Do

• Check Your Owner’s Manual: Opens in new tabAlways consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations. 
• Follow the 6-Month Guideline: Opens in new tabIf you don’t drive much, stick to the 6-month time frame to ensure your engine gets fresh oil. 
• Consider Oil-Life Monitors: Opens in new tabSome newer vehicles have an oil-life monitor that can provide a more accurate indication of when an oil change is needed. 

How often do you really need to change the oil in your car?

You should change your car’s oil according to your owner’s manual’s recommendation, which varies by oil type (e.g., conventional, synthetic) and driving conditions. Modern vehicles with oil-life monitoring systems will notify you when an oil change is needed. In general, for synthetic oils, intervals can be 7,500–10,000 miles or six months, while conventional oils may require changes every 3,000-5,000 miles or three months. 
Consult Your Owner’s Manual

• Primary Recommendation: The most important source for your specific vehicle is the owner’s manual. 
• Oil-Life Monitor: Newer cars may have an oil-life monitoring system that analyzes driving conditions and tells you when an oil change is necessary. 

Factors Influencing Oil Change Frequency

• Type of Oil:
  • Synthetic Oil: Can last longer, often 7,500-10,000 miles or more. 
  • Conventional Oil: Requires more frequent changes, typically every 3,000-5,000 miles. 
• Driving Conditions:
  • Normal vs. Severe: Your owner’s manual will likely have different recommendations for “normal” and “severe” driving. 
  • Severe Conditions: Include short trips, frequent idling, towing, and driving on dirt or dusty roads, all of which can shorten the time between oil changes. 
• Time vs. Mileage:
  • Even if you don’t drive much, change your oil about every six months, as oil degrades over time and moisture can build up in the engine. 

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.

Can you go 2 years without changing oil?

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.