Changing your car’s oil is one of the most important things you can do to keep your engine running smoothly. But with so much advice, it’s easy to get confused. Some people say you need to change it every 3,000 miles, while others claim modern cars can go much longer without an oil change. So, what’s the truth?
At Fubex Lubricants, we want to clear up the confusion. This guide will give common oil change myths and help you understand when and why your car needs fresh oil. Let’s separate fact from fiction to keep your engine in top shape!
What is Motor Oil, and Why Do We Need It?
Motor oil, also called engine oil, is a special liquid that helps keep a car’s engine running smoothly. It does many essential jobs, like reducing friction between moving parts, stopping the engine from getting too hot, and ensuring everything works properly. Motor oil also helps clean the engine by removing dirt and tiny bits of metal. Plus, it protects the engine from rust and damage.
Without motor oil, an engine would wear out quickly, lose power, and break down much sooner. That’s why using the right motor oil is essential for keeping a car in good shape.
Now, let’s look at some common myths about motor oil and discover the facts behind them!
Motor Oil Myths – What’s True and What’s Not?
Myth 1: Dark Oil Means It’s Dirty and Needs to Be Changed
Many think motor oil is too dirty to work correctly if it looks dark. But that’s not always true! Oil gets darker as it does its job inside the engine. How it feels matters—if it’s rough or gritty, it’s time for a change.
Myth 2: You Must Change Your Oil Before a Road Trip
Before a long trip, checking your oil is bright, but you don’t always need to change it. If your car will need an oil change during the journey, it’s better to do it before you leave. But if your oil still has plenty of life left, your car will be fine on the road.
Myth 3: You Can’t Switch Back to Regular Oil After Using Synthetic
Some people think you can’t return to regular oil once you use synthetic oil. That’s not true! As long as you use the right oil for your engine, you can switch between synthetic and regular oil with no issues.
Myth 4: Thicker Oil Protects the Engine Better
Many drivers believe thicker oil is better for their engine. However, newer cars are designed to work best with thinner oils. Using the correct type of oil helps your engine run smoothly and saves fuel.
It’s important to know when your car needs an oil change.
Motor Oil Myths – Facts vs. Fiction
Myth 1: All Engine Oil Is the Same
Some think all motor oil is the same and will work in any car. But that’s not true! Using the wrong oil can damage your engine and make it wear out faster.
Fact: Different cars need different types of oil. Motor oil comes in various thicknesses (called viscosity) and has unique ingredients (called additives) to help the engine run smoothly. These additives prevent rust, reduce friction, and keep the engine clean. Always check your car’s manual to ensure you’re using the right oil!
Myth 2: Dark Motor Oil Means It’s Dirty and Needs Changing
Many people think that if their motor oil looks dark, it must be dirty and needs to be changed immediately. But that’s not always true!
Fact: Motor oil naturally gets darker over time because it picks up tiny dirt particles and keeps the engine clean. This doesn’t mean it’s terrible! Instead of looking at the color, follow your car’s oil change schedule or get your oil tested to know if it’s time for a change.
Myth 3: Synthetic Oil Causes Leaks in Old Cars
Some people believe switching to synthetic oil in an older car will cause leaks. They think synthetic oil is too powerful, removing built-up dirt and sealing small cracks.
Fact: Modern synthetic oils are safe for all cars, old and new. Years ago, some synthetic oils could cause seals to shrink and lead to leaks, but today’s formulas protect your engine without causing harm. If your car starts leaking oil after switching, it probably had leaks before—you didn’t notice them! Regular oil changes and maintenance will keep your engine running strong.
Myth 4: You Have to Change Your Motor Oil Every 4,500 Kilometers
Many people believe that motor oil needs to be changed after 4,500 kilometers. This has been a standard rule for years, and some drivers worry that waiting longer could harm their engine.
Fact: Thanks to better oil and improved engines, you don’t always need to change your oil that soon. Many modern cars can go 12,000, 16,000, or even 24,000 kilometers before needing an oil change. Changing oil too often wastes money and resources. Following your car’s manual is the best way to know when to change your oil.
Myth 5: Thicker Oil Protects Your Engine Better
Using thicker oil gives the engine better protection. Since thick liquids seem stronger, they believe it will prevent damage better.
Fact: Every car needs a specific oil thickness (called viscosity). If the oil is too thick, it won’t flow easily, especially in cold weather or when starting the engine. If it’s too thin, it won’t protect well when the engine gets hot. Using the wrong oil can damage your car’s fuel efficiency and performance. Always check your car’s manual before changing oil types.
Myth 6: You Can’t Switch Between Synthetic and Regular Oil
Many people think that if you use synthetic oil, you can’t return to regular oil or that mixing them will harm the engine.
Fact: You can switch between synthetic and regular oil without any problems if the oil meets your car’s needs. Many oils are already a mix of both. The key is to use the correct oil type and viscosity recommended in your car’s manual. If you’re not sure, ask a mechanic!
Essential Things to Know About Motor Oil
- Not All Oils Are the Same: Different cars need different types of oil. Using the right one helps your engine run smoothly and last longer.
- Dark oil isn’t Always Dirty. Oil changes color as it cleans your engine. Just because it’s dark doesn’t mean it’s terrible.
- Synthetic Oil Is Safe: Modern synthetic oils work well in new and old cars and often protect engines better than regular oil.
- You Don’t Always Need an Oil Change at 4,500 km: Many newer cars can go much longer before needing fresh oil. Check your car’s manual for the right timing.
- Oil Thickness Matters: If oil is too thick or too thin, it can harm your engine. Always use the type your car manufacturer recommends.
Knowing these facts will help you take better care of your car and avoid costly mistakes!
Why Engine Oil is Important
Engine oil is like a superhero for your car’s engine! It helps by:
- Lubricating engine parts so they don’t grind against each other.
- Cooling the engine by carrying away extra heat.
- Cleaning dirt and sludge that build up inside the engine.
- Protecting against rust so the engine lasts longer.
If you don’t change your oil regularly, your engine could overheat, wear out, or even break down. That could mean considerable repair costs! Learn more about How engine oil affects motorcycle oil pressure sensors.
Signs You Need an Oil Change Soon
Your car might still need fresh oil even if you haven’t reached the recommended mileage. Watch for these signs:
- Dark or dirty oil – Clean oil is light brown, but old oil turns black and gritty.
- Loud engine noises—If your engine sounds more audible than usual or makes knocking sounds, the oil might not be doing its job.
- Check engine or oil light – If this light turns on, your car is telling you it needs an oil change.
- A burning oil smell could mean an oil leak or your engine is getting too hot.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—get an oil change soon to keep your engine running smoothly!
Conclusion
Taking care of your car means knowing the truth about oil changes. There are many myths, but the most important thing is to use the correct oil and change it when needed. Every car is different, so watch your manual for warning signs like dirty oil, engine noise, or the oil light turning on.
At Fubex Lubricants, we make high-quality oils to keep your engine running smoothly and lasting longer. When you take care of your oil, you care for your car!
FAQs
Q1: How often should you change your car’s oil?
Most car companies say you should change your oil every 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. But it also depends on how you drive and where you live. Some cars need oil changes more often. Also, following the oil change schedule is essential to keep your car’s warranty valid.
Q2: Why is changing engine oil important?
Changing engine oil is essential because it keeps your car running smoothly. Old oil gets dirty and can cause engine parts to wear out faster. This can make your vehicle use more fuel and lead to expensive repairs.
