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I've always heard that the oil in a car should be changed every 3000 miles, but I read the manufacturer's suggested maintenance guide, and it says to change it every 5000 miles. Which is correct, or is it something entirely different, and why?

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What does the vehicle's manufacturer recommend? There is no one answer that applies across the board. – John Gardeniers Mar 8 '11 at 1:19
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As the question says, the manufacturer's maintenance guide says 5000 miles. – PearsonArtPhoto Mar 8 '11 at 1:22
Not a pro question. Please see this – Joel Spolsky♦ Mar 8 '11 at 4:07

closed as off topic by Joel Spolsky♦ Mar 8 '11 at 4:07

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If you're looking to change oil at a set mileage interval you should use the maintenance interval set by the vehicle manufacturer. More frequent changes aren't necessary however you may wish to change oil more frequently based on driving conditions (lot's of stop & go, short drives.)

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