Oil Change Intervals – Older Cars

Older cars typically have oil change intervals based on mileage, and have two maintenance schedules, one for cars driven in “normal” operation and another for those used in “severe service.” The latter category involves operating your car under one or more of the following conditions:

• Primarily short trips (5 miles or less)
• Extremely hot, cold, or dusty climates
• Sustained stop-and-go driving
• Carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer

If your vehicle use falls under the severe service definition in your owner’s manual, maintain your car using the more rigorous schedule. However, if you drive your car under normal conditions, be wary of spending hard-earned money on oil change services and other maintenance work your car may not need or benefit from.