At what frequency is an oil change recommended?

Most car owners should change their motor oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but every car is slightly different. The manual to every individual vehicle gives the best guidance as to what is ideal.

Ideal driving conditions maximize the amount of time between oil changes, and some drivers report that they are able to drive up to 10,000 miles between changes. Stop-and-go city traffic, driving in extreme heat or extreme cold, dusty roads, gravel roads and frequent short trips are all driving habits that can shorten the lifespan of motor oil. In either case, it is never wise to allow an engine to drive any more than 10,000 miles without an oil change.