If there’s one car maintenance myth that refuses to die, it’s this: “Change your oil every 3,000 miles.” That advice might’ve been sound when Nokia phones were cutting-edge, but times — and engines — have changed.
So, how often should you really change your oil? At Paisley Autocare, we’re clearing up the confusion.
Old-School Advice: Outdated and Overcautious
Years ago, changing oil every 3,000 miles (around 5,000 km) made sense. Engines weren’t as efficient, and oils weren’t as advanced. But now?
Modern engines and synthetic oils can last 10,000 to 15,000 miles between changes — sometimes even longer. So if you’re still sticking to the 3,000-mile rule, you’re probably wasting money and time.
The Real Answer: Follow Your Manufacturer
Your car's handbook is your best friend here. Most manufacturers now recommend oil changes:
- Every 10,000–12,000 miles
- Or once a year, whichever comes first
That’s assuming you’re using quality synthetic oil, which most modern cars require. If you're still running on budget mineral oil (and we hope you're not), those intervals might be shorter.
When You Might Need It Sooner
Your driving habits play a big role. You’ll want to change your oil more often if you:
- Take lots of short trips (especially under 5 miles)
- Sit in heavy traffic regularly
- Drive a turbocharged or performance car
- Tow heavy loads or drive in harsh weather
In these cases, changing oil every 6,000–8,000 miles is safer for your engine.
Why Oil Changes Actually Matter
Oil isn’t just “liquid stuff” in your engine — it:
- Lubricates moving parts
- Reduces heat
- Prevents corrosion
- Traps dirt and metal particles
Over time, oil breaks down and turns into sludge. This can lead to:
- Clogged oil passages
- Increased engine wear
- Poor fuel efficiency
- And worst-case scenario: complete engine failure
All that from skipping a £100 - £150 oil change? Not worth the risk.
Warning Signs You Might Be Due
Apart from sticking to your service schedule, look out for:
- Oil warning light on your dash
- Oil that looks dark, dirty, or gritty
- Ticking or knocking noises from the engine
- A general drop in performance or smoothness
Or, if in doubt — bring it to us and we’ll check it.
Cheap Insurance for Your Engine
We get it — life’s busy, money’s tight, and oil changes can seem boring. But this small, routine job is one of the best ways to avoid major engine problems down the line.
Think of it like brushing your teeth. You don’t wait for them to fall out before picking up a toothbrush — same goes for your car.
Our Advice at Paisley Autocare
- Stick to manufacturer guidelines
- Use high-quality synthetic oil
- Don’t delay if you’ve been driving in tough conditions
- Keep a record of your services — especially if you plan to sell the car later
We offer affordable oil changes, proper oil for your engine, and no hard sells. Just honest advice and solid service.
Final Word
Forget the myths — oil changes aren't one-size-fits-all. Your car’s needs depend on how and where you drive, what engine you have, and what oil you use. When in doubt, ask the pros.
Need an oil change in Paisley?
Swing by Paisley Autocare and we’ll take care of it quickly and professionally — no mess, no stress.
