The recommended interval for changing full synthetic oil generally ranges between 7,500 and 15,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. Most modern vehicles suggest oil changes around 7,500 to 10,000 miles, with some manufacturers extending this up to 12,000 or 16,000 miles
. Key points to consider:
- Normal driving conditions: Synthetic oil can last 10,000 to 15,000 miles or about 6 to 12 months between changes
- Severe driving conditions: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures, dusty or sandy environments, tow heavy loads, or do mostly short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up, oil changes should be more frequent, around every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every 3 to 6 months
- City vs. highway driving: City or mixed driving may require oil changes every 5,000 miles, whereas mostly highway driving can extend the interval to about 7,500 miles
- Manufacturer’s recommendation: Always follow the oil change interval specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, as it accounts for your specific engine and oil type
In summary, for full synthetic oil, a good rule of thumb is to change it every 7,500 to 10,000 miles under normal conditions, but adjust to shorter intervals if driving conditions are severe. Also, changing at least once per year is advisable even if mileage is low
