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Your car's Oil Change Intervals (or Oil Drain Intervals) will depend on a number of different factors. The subject of Oil Change Intervals is a hotly debated topic that even the so-called 'experts' can’t seem to agree on. The truth is: there is no magical one-size-fits-all number. So the simple answer is: "it depends".

Some of the factors that will determine your Oil Drain Intervals include:

Synthetic Oil allows for significantly longer drain intervals then Conventional Oil – especially high-quality extended drain Full Synthetic Oils, such as our Top-Tier AMSOIL Signature Series and our Extended Life Series for instance (not all Synthetic Oils are created equal).

For instance, frequent city driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic, or repeated short distances driving; driving in very cold, very hot, humid, dusty, or sandy environments; frequent towing, hauling, or plowing; excessive idling; etc., will require more frequent oil changes. (Check your Owner’s Manual for more info on severe driving conditions.)

Because of technological advances in modern engine materials, design, and built, as well as significant improvements in engine oil formulations, recommended oil change intervals for new vehicles have become considerably longer (especially in Europe).

That said, if your car has an engine that's particularly hard on the motor oil - for instance, if it has a Gasoline Direct-injection (GDi) engine or worst a Turbo Gasoline Direct-injection (T-GDi) - you might need to change the oil more frequently then you would for a non-GDi or non-turbo engine.

Another factor that will impact the length of your Oil Drain Intervals is the size/capacity of the vehicle's Oil Sump. A smaller sump, say less than 5 quarts (or 4.5 liters), will require more frequent drain intervals as the oil will become over-saturated with contaminants sooner than it would with a much larger oil sump.

The bottom line is: the recommended oil change interval will be different for different people and different vehicles. There is no magical one-size-fits-all number.

One thing that is certain, however, is that the 3,000 mi (5,000 km) oil drain interval recommendation is a thing of the past. For instance, with AMSOIL’s Signature Series oil, you can extend up to 25,000 miles (40,000 km) under normal (ideal) driving conditions. (see The 3000 Mile Myth)

NOTE: If your vehicle is still under warranty, it is advisable to follow the Oil Drain Interval from the appropriate "service schedule" outlined in your Owner's Manual.

In the U.S., the federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act protects your freedom to choose the brand of parts and lubricants you think is best. It also protects your right to extend Oil Change Intervals beyond what's given in your Owner's Manual without fear of voiding your factory warranty or having a warranty claim denied.

1. It is illegal to tie warranty coverage to whichever brand of parts or lubricants you use. Manufacturers that do so must provide the parts or lubricants free of charge.
2. You have the freedom to choose how you protect your vehicles and equipment, including use of products formulated for extended drain intervals.
3. Manufacturers can’t deny warranty coverage without showing the aftermarket part or lubricant caused the failure.

Additionally, AMSOIL products are Warranty Secure, keeping your factory warranty intact. They are high-performance replacements for vehicle/equipment manufacturer-branded products. That's one more reason we've earned the trust of hardcore enthusiasts across North America.

Like our products, the AMSOIL Limited Warranty is built with an extra measure of protection. While some other oil companies guarantee their products only until you reach a specified mileage, we don't place restrictions on our warranty coverage based on total vehicle miles. We stand behind our products for as long as you use them.

See also this FTC article: Auto Warranties & Routine Maintenance

NOTE: If you plan on doing your own oil and filter changes, or have them done by a 'third party' - such as a Quick Lube shop or an Independent shop - be sure to keep all your receipts and detailed records.

Also, you should always change the Oil Filter every single time you change your oil. AMSOIL Full-flow Oil Filters feature advanced full synthetic media that traps and holds a greater amount of small, wear-causing contaminants compared to conventional filters. They provide extended service intervals (up to 25,000mi/40,000 km or one year) for increased convenience, while helping reduce engine wear. They also have one of the best efficiency ratings in the automotive market.

And don't forget to also regularly monitor the oil level between changes, adding top-up oil if/when needed. (see also Can I Mix Different Motor Oils?)

Lastly, don't forget to also regularly monitor your Air Filter and change it at the recommended intervals or when dirty. (Clean intake air = cleaner motor oil.)