Exposing The Truth About Extended Drain Intervals

Wouldn't it just be easier if we adopted one or two grades of motor oil designed to last for specific period of time instead of a half dozen different oil change intervals? In most of Europe they have adopted this very principle and Europeans have been driving 20,000 miles plus for over two decades between oil changes.

The 3,000 mile oil change recommendation is finally being pushed out of the spotlight because consumers are demanding more. Most car manufacturer's are now recommending 5,000--7,500 miles between changes. So why do the quick lubes keep putting that sticker in your window reminding you to come back in 3,000 miles?

If this wasn't confusing enough have you ever talked to a new BMW, Audi or VW owner? All three German Manufacturer's recommend a 10,000 mile drain interval. When you speak to an owner of one of these German made cars they act like it's no big deal. In fact some of the dealers servicing these cars are charging over $80.00 for an oil change. Did you ever wonder why the Germans get to go nearly double the miles as anyone driving an American made car? I personally know several BMW and VW owners that rave about the simplicity of longer drain intervals.

Did you know that most Europeans are on a 1 year oil change? The high quality synthetic oils used in Europe are capable of 20,000-25,000 mile intervals and recent articles in trade publications indicate they want to take these intervals to 30,000 miles. Getting a hold of some these oils here in the United States has been difficult?

Well to some degree you can if you know where to look. In fact rumors are starting to circulate that two major oil suppliers to Europe have let some of their "super synthetics" into the United States. Now these oils are not cheap, some estimates have indicated that these oils cost as much as $12.00/qt. A hefty price to pay for quality, but look at all the benefits, cleaner running engines, reduces operating temperatures, increases fuel mileage and of course extends the drain intervals.

There is one company in the United States that sells a very high quality synthetic oil through a network of Independent Distributors. With published drain intervals of 25,000 miles these oils are becoming more and more popular all the time. You can use qualified synthetic lubricants in your vehicle without fear of voiding your warranty.

Drain interval recommendations are simply that--recommendations. These interval recommendations are not required to keep your warranty valid. Oil manufacturers should be determining the length of your oil change interval without fear of voiding your warranty.

We hope that this clears up all the half truths floating around out there about drain intervals. It would be a lot simpler if all the car manufacturer's got together and either decided on one grade of oil to be used, like they do in Europe or refer to the oil manufacturer for the exact interval. It's way too confusing listening to all the advice out there being given from car dealers, quick lubes, mechanics and just about anyone else who thinks they understand oil. The easiest thing to do would be to adopt one or two specs that specifically deal with drain intervals and eliminate the guesses and opinions.