When it comes to oil changes, you've probably gotten unsolicited advice from just about everyone, but who should you listen to? Below are some common oil change myths and the truth behind them.

Learn the Truth Behind Common Oil Change Myths

One of the first things you learn after getting a car is just how important oil changes are for the well-being of your car. Beyond that, however, you may be completely lost when it comes to other oil aspects, such as how often to get it changed and which oil is best for your car. In fact, you may come across a lot of conflicting information depending on who you ask. Below are some myths about oil changes and the truth behind them so that you can be a bit more informed when it's time for your next oil change.

Myth: Get an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles

It is widely believed that oil changes must be performed every 3,000 miles in order to keep your car in top shape. While this won't do any harm to your car, it also isn't true that oil changes are needed this often. In fact, most newer model cars will be just fine if wait longer than 3,000 miles. Contrary to popular belief, there is no set oil change interval that all drivers should follow. Since car models differ in quite a few areas and not everyone uses the same oil, how often your car will need an oil change will depend on these and other factors. Check your manufacturer's recommendations for the most accurate information.

Myth: You Don't HAVE to Change Your Oil

You may not have to change your oil as often as you once thought, but you do have to change it sometime. Cars and motor oil have made significant strides through the years, but oil changes are still necessary. If you put them off or just completely skip them, your car won't be happy. Your oil will start to break down and may even turn into sludge. All of this can lead to serious engine damage and can even cause your car to fail. Before deciding to stop getting oil changes, be sure you understand the risks of driving around with old, dirty oil.

Myth: Once You Go Synthetic, Forget About Conventional Oil

If you've always been interested in trying a synthetic oil but have been to scared to make a lifelong commitment to it, there's nothing to worry about. You can switch from conventional oil to synthetic oil and back without any issues as long as you use the right type of oil for your vehicle. Instead of wondering if all those benefits associated with synthetic oil are true, why not give it a chance? If you don't love it you can always make the switch back to conventional oil, but chances are you won't want to. Before getting your next oil change, why not consider a synthetic oil change in San Diego, CA? Call Synthetic Oil Inc. at (800) 653-0323 to learn all about the benefits associated with synthetic oils. You can find all of the best AMSOIL Oil products in their online shop.

Myth: Dark Oil Means It Has to Go

When you see oil coming out of the bottle you'll notice that it's a light amber color. A couple weeks later, however, this amber color will be replaced by a dark or even black color. Before you panic and take your car in for an oil change, take a breath and keep driving. Oil will turn a darker color as it travels through your engine, so this is completely normal and doesn't mean anything other than your oil is doing its job. When your oil needs to be changed it won't just be black, it will also be thicker and may have visible particles in it.

Myth: Thicker Oil Is Better

For some reason many motorists think that the thicker an oil is, the better it will protect their engine. This simply isn't true since the thickness has more to do with the oil's viscosity than it's cleaning properties. If you use an oil that is too thick for your car's needs, this can actually lead to decreased engine efficiency. Most newer model cars call for lower viscosity oils, so be sure to follow your manufacturer's recommendations for the best results.

Synthetic Oil Change in San Diego, CA

Keep your engine better protected by getting regular oil changes. Now that you know that synthetic oil doesn't mean a forced lifelong commitment, why not give it a chance? You may be surprised to see just how much of a difference it can make in your engine. To learn more about its benefits, contact Synthetic Oil Inc at (800) 653-0323. You can also find a full range of AMSOIL Oil's best products, including their Signature Series 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, by visiting their online shop.