3,000 mile myth
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3,000 mile myth
The 3,000 mile myth refers to a common belief that all cars should have their motor oil changed at least every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) to maintain their car engine correctly. Efforts are under way to convince the public that this is not necessary, and that people should follow the advice given in their owner's manual rather than the advice of the oil-change businesses.[1]
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History
In the 1970s, typical cars used 10W-40 oil which was used for a duration of 3,000 mi (4,800 km) or less. In the 1980s, to improve fuel economy and engine performance 10W-30 oil was introduced 10W-30 oil was in general use in the 1960's if not the late 1950's. which was then used for a duration of 3,000 miles and later in the decade, 5W-30 became more commonplace. Today, one will see 5W-30 but more commonly 5W-20 and even 0W-20. Most European cars today use 0W-40 synthetic oils, and the dexos standard on some North American cars require synthetic oils.
From the early 1980s most oil change shops have been recommending an oil change every 3,000 miles. During the following decades engine technology and oil technology have advanced requiring less frequent oil changes under normal driving conditions.
Reasons
This recently identified "myth" has continued to exist due to the complexity existing in today's car industry. The diverse array of cars and oil types available make it hard for an average person to reliably know what to do.
In response to this, car manufacturers include a manual with recommendations for how often the oil should be changed[2][3] often including recommendations based on driving conditions. Some models now come with a monitoring system that alerts the driver when the oil needs changing. Depending on driving conditions, these can extend change intervals to 10,000 or 15,000 miles.[4][5] In case of diesel engines and manufacturer recommended long-life oil, the indicated change interval can be as long as 19,000 miles (31,000 km) (BMW) or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (VW).
References
- ^ State says many drivers change oil too often
- ^ California EPA and General Motors team up to Help Drivers Reduce Oil Consumption
- ^ New Website Educates Drivers About the 3,000 Mile Myth: Changing motor vehicle oil every 3,000 miles is not always recommended
- ^ Carmakers increase oil change intervals
- ^ Ford Extends Oil Change Intervals
External links
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