Oil Change Myths

You may have heard several pieces of wisdom about oil changes, including information about when you should change your oil, that are actually myths. We’ve compiled a list of debunked motor oil myths to help your vehicle run longer and stronger.

All Brands and Types of Engine Oil Are the Same

This is not close to the truth. Different types of oil are better suited for different types of vehicles and what they’re used for. There’s also a difference in oils based on what they’re derived from, which is when you’re comparing synthetic vs. traditional.

The additives vary from one synthetic oil to another. Specifically, some are better than others based on their additives. The quality of base oil also differs from one to the other.

Thicker Oil Is Better

Thicker oil isn’t always better oil, which is one of the truths about oil changes we’re happy to debunk. If you’re choosing a thicker oil than recommended, you could be doing more harm than good for the engine.

You’ll notice on a bottle of oil that it was two numbers separated by a “W.” The first describes the winter viscosity, hence the “W” beside it. The second represents the warm weather viscosity. For both numbers, higher numbers mean the oil is thicker. For instance, a 15W is thicker than a 5W. Ideally, you’d want a lower one if you live in a colder area.

In terms of the second number, you’d also want a lower number if you live in an area where it’s cooler in the summer. A professional can help you decide the ideal thickness for your vehicle.

Schedule an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles or Three Months

When you’re deciding on a maintenance schedule for your vehicle, you may be a victim to the oil change golden rule — change your oil every 3,000 miles or three months. We’re excited to share the truth about oil changes regarding this tidbit of information.

This was once the standard. However, technological advances in both oils and engines have changed frequency recommendations. Typically, you want to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. In terms of time, you want to receive an oil change every six to 12 months. You can go for 12 months if you don’t drive your car all that much. Read your owner’s manual for specifics about your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

All Additives Are the Same

This is like saying all people are the same. People have their strengths and weaknesses, just like engine oils. Different additives provide different benefits. That’s why an oil may state that it’s best suited for higher-mileage vehicles or works well for heavy use.

Synthetic Oil Is More Likely to Cause a Leak

Maybe, it’s because synthetic oil is known to be slippery. Or, maybe someone thought that synthetic oil is more likely to do damage to engine components because it’s more processed. This simply isn’t true.

Synthetic oil doesn’t cause any damage to an engine’s gaskets or other components. Additionally, the slipperiness has nothing to do with the viscosity.

Learning about the debunked oil change myths can save you from an auto repair in the future.

Takeaways

• All brands and types of oils aren’t the same.
• Thicker oil isn’t always better.
• Your car can go longer than 3,000 miles or three months without an oil change.
• All additives aren’t the same.
• Synthetic oils aren’t more likely to cause a leak.

Schedule a routine maintenance appointment or oil change by calling East Coast Toyota by calling 201-438-5659.