Comments on: Is the 3,000-Mile Oil Change a Scam? http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/ personal finance that makes cents Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:11:43 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.5.1 By: Charles http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-148578 Charles Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:01:10 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-148578 Amsoil is not a get rich quick operation, merely making an avenue to the public for awareness, education, and saving money. Do your own research, it's free and quite exciting and liberating. People are doing research and are finding out on their own that the 3,000 mile drain is, in fact, a myth. The American people are not stupid, just uninformed in some areas, but in time, we all learn and catch on and do the right thing. I was uninformed. Not anymore. And am thankful to the persons who "informed" me. Amsoil is not a get rich quick operation, merely making an avenue to the public for awareness, education, and saving money.
Do your own research, it’s free and quite
exciting and liberating. People are doing
research and are finding out on their own that
the 3,000 mile drain is, in fact, a myth.
The American people are not stupid, just
uninformed in some areas, but in time, we
all learn and catch on and do the right thing.
I was uninformed. Not anymore. And am thankful
to the persons who “informed” me.

]]> By: russ http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-148521 russ Thu, 18 Sep 2008 15:07:22 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-148521 wow.. The comments section turned into an amsoil advert. Maybe they're trying to use GRS to Get Rich Fast... wow.. The comments section turned into an amsoil advert. Maybe they’re trying to use GRS to Get Rich Fast…

]]> By: Sgt. Sausage http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147326 Sgt. Sausage Mon, 08 Sep 2008 05:01:34 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147326 I ran an experiment. My wife *always* goes to dealeship for service (read that as expensive) and *always* gets the oil changed at 3,000 miles. I thought it was a scam back then ... now I *know* it's a sham. When I bought my van (Plymouth Voyager), new, waaaayyyy back in 1996, the book said every 7,500 miles. I doubled that. Only replaced the oil (and filter) every 15,000 miles. Yes, that's right. Fifteen Thousand miles. I sold (actually traded for some concrete work on the dam and spillway of our pond (barter, it's great!) -- anyway, got rid of the van a few years back with 185,000 miles on it. No problems with the engine (tranny went out, but that's a different issue). The guy I traded it to has driven it for another 3 years and it's currently at 220,000 (ish) miles and has never had a problem with the engine. Fifteen thousand miles, folks. 3,000 is a sham and a waste of both your time and your money. I ran an experiment. My wife *always* goes to dealeship for service (read that as expensive) and *always* gets the oil changed at 3,000 miles. I thought it was a scam back then … now I *know* it’s a sham.

When I bought my van (Plymouth Voyager), new, waaaayyyy back in 1996, the book said every 7,500 miles. I doubled that. Only replaced the oil (and filter) every 15,000 miles. Yes, that’s right. Fifteen Thousand miles.

I sold (actually traded for some concrete work on the dam and spillway of our pond (barter, it’s great!) — anyway, got rid of the van a few years back with 185,000 miles on it. No problems with the engine (tranny went out, but that’s a different issue).

The guy I traded it to has driven it for another 3 years and it’s currently at 220,000 (ish) miles and has never had a problem with the engine.

Fifteen thousand miles, folks.

3,000 is a sham and a waste of both your time and your money.

]]> By: Josh http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147291 Josh Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:23:07 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147291 Let's say it's a scam. $15-20 every 3 months is a small price to pay for the alternative. Americans probably spend $15-20 in 3 days on gasoline, so changing your oil, even if its useless, is not that harmful. But anybody who's seen your oil drain out sees how nasty it looks, to say the least. Let’s say it’s a scam.

$15-20 every 3 months is a small price to pay for the alternative.

Americans probably spend $15-20 in 3 days on gasoline, so changing your oil, even if its useless, is not that harmful. But anybody who’s seen your oil drain out sees how nasty it looks, to say the least.

]]> By: Quick and Easy Car Maintenance: Change Your Oil and Inflate Your Tires ? Get Rich Slowly http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147180 Quick and Easy Car Maintenance: Change Your Oil and Inflate Your Tires ? Get Rich Slowly Sat, 06 Sep 2008 23:00:51 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-147180 [...] to Extend the Life of Your CarIs the 3,000-Mile Oil Change a Scam?Extreme Personal Finance: The Most Fuel-Efficient Driver in the WorldQuick and Easy Self-Watering [...] [...] to Extend the Life of Your CarIs the 3,000-Mile Oil Change a Scam?Extreme Personal Finance: The Most Fuel-Efficient Driver in the WorldQuick and Easy Self-Watering [...]

]]> By: dale http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146761 dale Wed, 03 Sep 2008 13:20:43 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146761 I'm a big believer in changing my oil regularly. In my youth I didn't maintain my cars regularly, then I burned up an engine... The expensive lessons are the ones that teach you best. I change every six months or 6,000 with synthetic oil. I always go to my local Firestone retailer for my service and have been doing so for the past ten years. Yeah, I could do it myself and save a few bucks, but they dispose of the used oil properly, check all my other fluids, rotate my tires for free and since I purchase a lifetime alignment (5 years ago) they align my front end, too. I’m a big believer in changing my oil regularly. In my youth I didn’t maintain my cars regularly, then I burned up an engine… The expensive lessons are the ones that teach you best. I change every six months or 6,000 with synthetic oil. I always go to my local Firestone retailer for my service and have been doing so for the past ten years. Yeah, I could do it myself and save a few bucks, but they dispose of the used oil properly, check all my other fluids, rotate my tires for free and since I purchase a lifetime alignment (5 years ago) they align my front end, too.

]]> By: Charles http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146425 Charles Sun, 31 Aug 2008 03:08:41 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146425 JonP, I admire the fact that you take care of your vehicle, but Mr. Roberts is correct. While you change your oil frequently, and it's hard to argue with your impressive mileage, it does come out to be more expensive your way when Amsoil can actually protect your engine better and cheaper. If your engine fails at 300K miles, who's to say that is a bad thing, except for the fact, had you been using Amsoil Synthetic lubricants, you could then boast like so many other documented cases, of going a half million miles to over a million miles. Petroleum oil served its purpose in the 50's and 60's, but like the 8 track player and bias tires, it has been replaced by a superior product. Synthetic oil is superior and Amsoil has been proven to be the "best" synthetic on the market today, undisputed by any other oil company. I do admire your car care. JonP, I admire the fact that you take care of your vehicle, but Mr. Roberts is correct. While you change your oil frequently, and it’s hard to argue with your impressive mileage, it does come out to be more expensive your way when Amsoil can actually protect your engine better and cheaper. If your engine fails at 300K miles, who’s to say that is a bad thing, except for the fact, had you been using Amsoil Synthetic lubricants, you could then boast like so many other documented cases, of going a half million miles to over a million miles. Petroleum oil served its purpose in the 50’s and 60’s, but like the 8 track player and bias tires, it has been replaced by a superior product. Synthetic oil is superior and Amsoil has been proven to be the “best” synthetic on the market today, undisputed by any other oil company. I do admire your car care.

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146424 Nick Roberts Sun, 31 Aug 2008 02:59:24 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146424 Sorry JonP but you are way off the mark here. Low quality oil and low quality oil filters add up to excessive wear and reduce the life of an engine. The best results are seen by using top quality oils and filters such as Amsoil provides. In the world of Get Rich Slowly you suggest it makes sense to waste money and resources by changing cheap oils and filters at 3000 mile intervals. In 25,000 miles following JonP's advice. the average car uses 40 quarts of cheap oil and 8 oil filters; even at $3.00 a quart for inferior oil, that's $120 annually plus another $40.00 for 8 filters adds up to a total of $160.00 annually to poorly protect the engine and it's reliability. On the other hand 5 quarts of Amsoil Synthetic Motor OIl at $8.00 plus 1 oil filter at $15.00 for a total of $55.00 will provide less wear on the engine, better fuel economy and greater engine life as well as being designed to go 25,000 miles on the Amsoil Oil and Filter combination. As an Automotive Quality Engineer I can say with certainty that what JonP offers is a recipe for wasting both oil, time and money while delivering poor engine protection. Not exactly what Get Rich Slowly seems to be about which is getting the most for each dollar. Nick Roberts, Lubrication and Filtration Specialist, www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 Sorry JonP but you are way off the mark here.

Low quality oil and low quality oil filters add up to excessive wear and reduce the life of an engine. The best results are seen by using top quality oils and filters such as Amsoil provides.

In the world of Get Rich Slowly you suggest it makes sense to waste money and resources by changing cheap oils and filters at 3000 mile intervals. In 25,000 miles following JonP’s advice. the average car uses 40 quarts of cheap oil and 8 oil filters; even at $3.00 a quart for inferior oil, that’s $120 annually plus another $40.00 for 8 filters adds up to a total of $160.00 annually to poorly protect the engine and it’s reliability.

On the other hand 5 quarts of Amsoil Synthetic Motor OIl at $8.00 plus 1 oil filter at $15.00 for a total of $55.00 will provide less wear on the engine, better fuel economy and greater engine life as well as being designed to go 25,000 miles on the Amsoil Oil and Filter combination.

As an Automotive Quality Engineer I can say with certainty that what JonP offers is a recipe for wasting both oil, time and money while delivering poor engine protection.

Not exactly what Get Rich Slowly seems to be about which is getting the most for each dollar. Nick Roberts, Lubrication and Filtration Specialist, http://www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190

]]> By: JonP http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146364 JonP Sat, 30 Aug 2008 09:44:55 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-146364 I agree with the above poster John in that it's better to change frequently with cheap oil, air filter and oil filters than stick to pricey stuff. I change all three on my Toyota every 3 months and it's at 210000miles. However long oil is designed to last, it's only part of the story - how clean is the air, the fuel, the pistons, or the filter in your car? IMO it's better to change lower quality products more frequently than buy to last. I agree with the above poster John in that it’s better to change frequently with cheap oil, air filter and oil filters than stick to pricey stuff. I change all three on my Toyota every 3 months and it’s at 210000miles.
However long oil is designed to last, it’s only part of the story - how clean is the air, the fuel, the pistons, or the filter in your car? IMO it’s better to change lower quality products more frequently than buy to last.

]]> By: Charles http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-142445 Charles Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:23:44 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-142445 John, I like the way you take care of your Honda Civic. Firstly, it's a great car with a great drivetrain so that's a plus. Changing your oil every 2K miles will indeed keep your car running good almost indefinitely. Changing that frequently will minimize the sludge and varnish problem inherent in lower priced oils and you're changing it before it has a chance to deteriorate. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what you're doing, other than the inconvenience at the frequency of changes. Switching to Amsoil will afford you the same longevity, but changing your oil once a year or 25K miles is way more convenient. I wish more people took the care that you do for your vehicle. You might want to pay attention to your transmission too. Happy Motoring. www.SyntheticSolution.com John, I like the way you take care of your Honda Civic. Firstly, it’s a great car with a great drivetrain so that’s a plus. Changing your oil every 2K miles will indeed keep your car running good almost indefinitely. Changing that frequently will minimize the sludge and varnish problem inherent in lower priced oils and you’re changing it before it has a chance to deteriorate. There is absolutely nothing wrong with what you’re doing, other than the inconvenience at the frequency of changes. Switching to Amsoil will afford you the same longevity, but changing your oil once a year or 25K miles is way more convenient. I wish more people took the care that you do for your vehicle. You might want to pay attention to your transmission too. Happy Motoring.
http://www.SyntheticSolution.com

]]> By: John http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-141885 John Sat, 26 Jul 2008 12:49:11 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-141885 I change my oil every 2,000 miles without question. After over 400,000 on my Honda Civic I think it's worth it! By the way, I buy the cheapest stuff possible and always on sale as long as it's API approved. About once a year Wal-Mart clears their shelves of whatever the "house brand" is at $.99/quart and I purchase enough to last me the entire year. My commute is about 150 miles/per day and mostly highway and a few surface streets. After every change, the oil is just starting to turn brown. Probably could leave it in longer, but as I said... I pay just $.99/quart and plan to keep my car another 400,000+ miles if it will go. I change my oil every 2,000 miles without question. After over 400,000 on my Honda Civic I think it’s worth it! By the way, I buy the cheapest stuff possible and always on sale as long as it’s API approved. About once a year Wal-Mart clears their shelves of whatever the “house brand” is at $.99/quart and I purchase enough to last me the entire year. My commute is about 150 miles/per day and mostly highway and a few surface streets. After every change, the oil is just starting to turn brown. Probably could leave it in longer, but as I said… I pay just $.99/quart and plan to keep my car another 400,000+ miles if it will go.

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136371 Nick Roberts Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:27:42 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136371 3000 mile oil changes are a scam used by the oil manufacturers to boost their sales. I use and sell Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils which are designed to go 25,000 miles or 12 months on one change. They are more expensive initially about $7.50 per quart but when you factor in the cost of 3000 mile drain intervals they are actually less expensive in the long run. Not only will Amsoil Synthetic Oils save you money in that way they also will provide superior lubrication and reduced wear extending the life of your vehicle. Amsoil also has oil and air filters that exceed any others in efficiency and longevity. Amsoil Ea Air Filters are designed to last 100,000 miles and only require a cleaning at 25,000 miles using a shop vacuum or a low air pressure cleaning using 10 PSI air. I am happy to discuss this with anyone who wants more info, drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website http://www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 . The real key to extending oil life is using the best air and oil filters, proper filtration of the air and oil prevent contamination of the oil and reduce engine wear as well as improving the reliability of any engine.Amsoil EaO Oil Filters and EaA Air Filters offer unsurpassed protection and by virtue of their design last significantly longer than cheap filters which will result in an overall savings when compared to the cheap ones. 3000 mile oil changes are a scam used by the oil manufacturers to boost their sales. I use and sell Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils which are designed to go 25,000 miles or 12 months on one change. They are more expensive initially about $7.50 per quart but when you factor in the cost of 3000 mile drain intervals they are actually less expensive in the long run. Not only will Amsoil Synthetic Oils save you money in that way they also will provide superior lubrication and reduced wear extending the life of your vehicle. Amsoil also has oil and air filters that exceed any others in efficiency and longevity. Amsoil Ea Air Filters are designed to last 100,000 miles and only require a cleaning at 25,000 miles using a shop vacuum or a low air pressure cleaning using 10 PSI air. I am happy to discuss this with anyone who wants more info, drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website http://www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 .

The real key to extending oil life is using the best air and oil filters, proper filtration of the air and oil prevent contamination of the oil and reduce engine wear as well as improving the reliability of any engine.Amsoil EaO Oil Filters and EaA Air Filters offer unsurpassed protection and by virtue of their design last significantly longer than cheap filters which will result in an overall savings when compared to the cheap ones.

]]> By: Charles http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136323 Charles Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:40:06 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136323 Some Bottom Lines: --The 3,000 mile oil change is not necessary and allows the quick lubes to make one additional oil change per car, per year. Big money. --If you're going to spend the extra money on "synthetic blends" (which is watered down synthetic), spend the extra dollar on pure synthetic. Synthetics have no parafin or wax and have uniform size molecules. Blends are just that, blended with oil that comes out of the ground and causes sludge and varnish on your engine parts. Don't waste your money on "blends". -- Today's vehicles have tighter engine tolerances and less room under the hood to get cool air across the engine, plus improved aerodynamics look great but don't help cool the engine. So using a top quality synthetic that runs cooler, keeps your engine running cooler. -- Synthetics do last longer. They're designed that way in the lab. Since all the molecules are the same size and also are not affected as much by high heat, you don't have the oil "burn off" (volatization)where the smaller molecules burn off from high heat, taking with it the additives that protect your engine and leaving behind the large molecules which thickens your oil and leaves deposits on your metal surfaces. Synthetics are designed for extended drain intervals. Only one, Amsoil, since "day one" 35 years ago, guarantees 25,000 miles or one year between oil changes. It's designed that way, it works, its guaranteed in writing. -- Filters. You get what you pay for. Period. Air filters are the vanguard of your entire system. Keep the dirt out of your engine and your oil filter won't have to work so hard. Oil filters, same thing, you get what you pay for. The inexpensive (cheap) filters off the shelf from the -Marts" are junk. There are quality oil filters out there and expect to pay a little more, it's worth it. Again, Amsoil makes the air filter good for 4 years or 100K miles, oil filter good for 1 year / 25K miles. the ONLY filters in the world with nanofiber technology, derived from the M1 Abrams Tank. No better filtration anywhere. Period. and guaranteed. -- the facts are out there and I'm pleased to see so many posts from so many people educating themselves on "lubrication", people are not dumb and a little common sense goes a long way, and I'm seeing that in these strings. Bravo to those of you who "care" about their vehicles. Do the research. Synthetic is the only way to go. And if you use synthetic, use the best. Feel free to visit my website, www.syntheticsolution.com and educate yourself. It will be an hour well spent. Some Bottom Lines:
–The 3,000 mile oil change is not necessary and allows the quick lubes to make one additional oil change per car, per year. Big money.
–If you’re going to spend the extra money on “synthetic blends” (which is watered down synthetic), spend the extra dollar on pure synthetic. Synthetics have no parafin or wax and have uniform size molecules. Blends are just that, blended with oil that comes out of the ground and causes sludge and varnish on your engine parts. Don’t waste your money on “blends”.
– Today’s vehicles have tighter engine tolerances and less room under the hood to get cool air across the engine, plus improved aerodynamics look great but don’t help cool the engine. So using a top quality synthetic that runs cooler, keeps your engine running cooler.
– Synthetics do last longer. They’re designed that way in the lab. Since all the molecules are the same size and also are not affected as much by high heat, you don’t have the oil “burn off” (volatization)where the smaller molecules burn off from high heat, taking with it the additives that protect your engine and leaving behind the large molecules which thickens your oil and leaves deposits on your metal surfaces. Synthetics are designed for extended drain intervals. Only one, Amsoil, since “day one” 35 years ago, guarantees 25,000 miles or one year between oil changes. It’s designed that way, it works, its guaranteed in writing.
– Filters. You get what you pay for. Period.
Air filters are the vanguard of your entire system. Keep the dirt out of your engine and your oil filter won’t have to work so hard. Oil filters, same thing, you get what you pay for. The inexpensive (cheap) filters off the shelf from the -Marts” are junk. There are quality oil filters out there and expect to pay a little more, it’s worth it. Again, Amsoil makes the air filter good for 4 years or 100K miles, oil filter good for 1 year / 25K miles. the ONLY filters in the world with nanofiber technology, derived from the M1 Abrams Tank. No better filtration anywhere. Period. and guaranteed.
– the facts are out there and I’m pleased to see so many posts from so many people educating themselves on “lubrication”, people are not dumb and a little common sense goes a long way, and I’m seeing that in these strings. Bravo to those of you who “care” about their vehicles.
Do the research. Synthetic is the only way to go. And if you use synthetic, use the best.
Feel free to visit my website, http://www.syntheticsolution.com and educate yourself. It will be an hour well spent.

]]> By: Brandon http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136274 Brandon Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:30:18 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-136274 Actually, it depends. Most older Diesel actually -require- frequent oil changes, as this affects MPG considerably. Actually, it depends. Most older Diesel actually -require- frequent oil changes, as this affects MPG considerably.

]]> By: Dude http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-126313 Dude Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:20:10 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-126313 Well the problem with the lube shops is they use crap filters and average to poor oil. With a lube shop filter I wouldnt go over 5000 miles. Whereas with a quality filter and a good oil like a synthetic blend I would go 10,000 miles without a second thought. So the British guy is correct, with OEM oil filter and OEM oil 12,000 miles is possible. Though at the far end of when you want to change your oil. You're better off finding a mechanic who will change your oil/filter with what you provide him for a reasonable price. Or doing the job yourself. I would never use lube shop filters they're junk. Well the problem with the lube shops is they use crap filters and average to poor oil.

With a lube shop filter I wouldnt go over 5000 miles.

Whereas with a quality filter and a good oil like a synthetic blend I would go 10,000 miles without a second thought.

So the British guy is correct, with OEM oil filter and OEM oil 12,000 miles is possible. Though at the far end of when you want to change your oil.

You’re better off finding a mechanic who will change your oil/filter with what you provide him for a reasonable price. Or doing the job yourself.

I would never use lube shop filters they’re junk.

]]> By: Oil Can Larry http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-108408 Oil Can Larry Wed, 12 Dec 2007 05:43:29 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-108408 Well, I have to revive this thread a little bit...with risk of being called all sorts of names, or whatever. I work at a place that rhymes with "Foil Fan Fenry's", and I'm no teenager. I'm 39 and have lots of mechanical experience. I have to agree with "do it as needed" and that 3000 miles is excessive, to some extent. However, there are a lot of manufacturers that require the 3000 mile changes for warranty issues. So, with that said, it's become the general rule of thumb. Also, there are some who say that people shouldn't be driving unless they can change their own oil. What about the lady next door? Should she lose her license because she can't work a wrench? Personally, I run synthetic oil and go 5000-8000 miles on that depending on the driving conditions (or how rich I am at the moment). Also, to take advantage of customers is silly in our company as there are cameras rolling all day long, (plus I'm an honest person), and if requested by the customer, we will even EMAIL you the video of us working on your car as proof of what we do, or have done. Also, the fees are a little higher because we actually check all fliuds and make honest recommendations according to EVERY vehicle manufacturer's specifications, which are also printed on every single Maintenance review we print up for every car we work on. Basically how we operate is to inform the customer. They make their own descisions based on that. PS: It's not my company, but i trust the company I work for. Well, I have to revive this thread a little bit…with risk of being called all sorts of names, or whatever.
I work at a place that rhymes with “Foil Fan Fenry’s”, and I’m no teenager. I’m 39 and have lots of mechanical experience. I have to agree with “do it as needed” and that 3000 miles is excessive, to some extent. However, there are a lot of manufacturers that require the 3000 mile changes for warranty issues. So, with that said, it’s become the general rule of thumb. Also, there are some who say that people shouldn’t be driving unless they can change their own oil. What about the lady next door? Should she lose her license because she can’t work a wrench? Personally, I run synthetic oil and go 5000-8000 miles on that depending on the driving conditions (or how rich I am at the moment).
Also, to take advantage of customers is silly in our company as there are cameras rolling all day long, (plus I’m an honest person), and if requested by the customer, we will even EMAIL you the video of us working on your car as proof of what we do, or have done. Also, the fees are a little higher because we actually check all fliuds and make honest recommendations according to EVERY vehicle manufacturer’s specifications, which are also printed on every single Maintenance review we print up for every car we work on. Basically how we operate is to inform the customer. They make their own descisions based on that.

PS: It’s not my company, but i trust the company I work for.

]]> By: Norman Burrows http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107519 Norman Burrows Wed, 05 Dec 2007 14:37:51 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107519 I am fortunate to have experienced a fair amount of driving both in Europe and the US. My perception is that the pace and top speeds are much higher in Europe. Jams and hold-ups are of Calafornian proportions in most of our cities too. Since the 90's oil change intervals have been steadily extending. My last car was serviced in exact accordance with the makers instructions: 18K miles (no breaking-in change either). It was mentioned that cars are expensive but I can assure you they are much more costly in Europe. Equally I can assure you that big ends, camshafts and piston rings are not being spat-out over the highway either. Cars are lasting longer than ever. You wouldn't question a motor under 100,000 miles these days. My conclusion is that it is a scam. My lastest car, a Prius, was picked up yesterday brand new. First oil change: 10K or 1 year. If the US recommendations are any different question it. The motor is exactly the same. I am fortunate to have experienced a fair amount of driving both in Europe and the US. My perception is that the pace and top speeds are much higher in Europe. Jams and hold-ups are of Calafornian proportions in most of our cities too.
Since the 90’s oil change intervals have been steadily extending. My last car was serviced in exact accordance with the makers instructions: 18K miles (no breaking-in change either).
It was mentioned that cars are expensive but I can assure you they are much more costly in Europe. Equally I can assure you that big ends, camshafts and piston rings are not being spat-out over the highway either. Cars are lasting longer than ever. You wouldn’t question a motor under 100,000 miles these days.
My conclusion is that it is a scam. My lastest car, a Prius, was picked up yesterday brand new. First oil change: 10K or 1 year. If the US recommendations are any different question it. The motor is exactly the same.

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107237 Nick Roberts Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:19:18 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107237 Tony makes a few statements that need clarification.The statement that synthetic oils don't last longer that petroleum oils is incorrect. Synthetic oils are engineered to exacting specifications. Their molecules are all the same size which eliminates the shearing and attendent viscosity increase that petroleum and synthetic blend oils exhibit. Synthetic blends are a mixture of petroleum and synthetic base stock; sort of like watering down your drink to extend the taste of the alcohol. Petroleum based oils tend to increase in viscosity the longer they stay in service because of the shearing of larger molecules into smaller fractions that then are able to get past the piston rings and be volitized in the combustion chamber. The second statement regarding extended drain intervals is also incorrect, the extension of drain intervals is the result of the more robust additive packages in synthetic oils that are designed for extended drain intervals. While he states that there are oils with suggested change intervals of 15,000 miles; there is only one motor oil with the proven ability to go 25,000 miles and that is Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil. Synthetic blends are a combination of petroleum and synthetic base stocks which means that they still contain waxes which adds to engine sludge. They are also subject to the same shearing as petroleum oils which results in increased viscosity, greater friction, higher engine wear and reduced engine protection. His staement that the Valvoline looks cleaner after time in service is a tipoff that the oil is not robust enough to carry the contaminants produced by the engine and is not doing it's job of dispursing the combustion byproducts. Color in oil is not a good indicator of the oil's condition and actually may be giving Tony false confidence in his motor oil. The blackness he refers to is carbon and soot which should be carried by the detergents and dispursants that make up the oil's additive package allowing the filter to capture any large particles that contribute to engine wear. Finally Tony says that he doesn't mind wasting his money changing his oil at 3000 mile intervals because he thinks it is helpful to his engine's performence. The reality is that by using a petroleum based or syhthetic blend oil he is not only wasting his money with the frquency of his change schedule he is also missing the benefits of reduced friction and extended engine life. Reducing friction means that the energy contained in the fuel is used to move the vehicle not to overcome the friction on the oil and the moving parts of the engine therefore increasing fuel economy. Not only will fuel economy increase with full synthetic Amsoil Motor Oil but engine wear and engine temperature will be reduced adding life to the vehicle and reducing the cost of operation not to mention increased mechanical reliability. The facts are that by using Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil one can reduce their annual oil change costs, increase their fuel economy, reduce wear in the engine and save time by not sitting in the oil change bay several times a year. On a site that talks about the value of money and tries to maximize the value of a dollar Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils deliver unsurpassed value. Questions or comments are welcomed email me at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website Synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190. Tony makes a few statements that need clarification.The statement that synthetic oils don’t last longer that petroleum oils is incorrect. Synthetic oils are engineered to exacting specifications. Their molecules are all the same size which eliminates the shearing and attendent viscosity increase that petroleum and synthetic blend oils exhibit. Synthetic blends are a mixture of petroleum and synthetic base stock; sort of like watering down your drink to extend the taste of the alcohol. Petroleum based oils tend to increase in viscosity the longer they stay in service because of the shearing of larger molecules into smaller fractions that then are able to get past the piston rings and be volitized in the combustion chamber.

The second statement regarding extended drain intervals is also incorrect, the extension of drain intervals is the result of the more robust additive packages in synthetic oils that are designed for extended drain intervals. While he states that there are oils with suggested change intervals of 15,000 miles; there is only one motor oil with the proven ability to go 25,000 miles and that is Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil.

Synthetic blends are a combination of petroleum and synthetic base stocks which means that they still contain waxes which adds to engine sludge. They are also subject to the same shearing as petroleum oils which results in increased viscosity, greater friction, higher engine wear and reduced engine protection.

His staement that the Valvoline looks cleaner after time in service is a tipoff that the oil is not robust enough to carry the contaminants produced by the engine and is not doing it’s job of dispursing the combustion byproducts. Color in oil is not a good indicator of the oil’s condition and actually may be giving Tony false confidence in his motor oil. The blackness he refers to is carbon and soot which should be carried by the detergents and dispursants that make up the oil’s additive package allowing the filter to capture any large particles that contribute to engine wear.

Finally Tony says that he doesn’t mind wasting his money changing his oil at 3000 mile intervals because he thinks it is helpful to his engine’s performence. The reality is that by using a petroleum based or syhthetic blend oil he is not only wasting his money with the frquency of his change schedule he is also missing the benefits of reduced friction and extended engine life. Reducing friction means that the energy contained in the fuel is used to move the vehicle not to overcome the friction on the oil and the moving parts of the engine therefore increasing fuel economy. Not only will fuel economy increase with full synthetic Amsoil Motor Oil but engine wear and engine temperature will be reduced adding life to the vehicle and reducing the cost of operation not to mention increased mechanical reliability.

The facts are that by using Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil one can reduce their annual oil change costs, increase their fuel economy, reduce wear in the engine and save time by not sitting in the oil change bay several times a year. On a site that talks about the value of money and tries to maximize the value of a dollar Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils deliver unsurpassed value.

Questions or comments are welcomed email me at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website Synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190.

]]> By: Tony http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107200 Tony Sun, 02 Dec 2007 23:15:07 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107200 3,000 miles is just an old standby. Today, oil technology has gotten better to the point where oil changes should be done at about 7,000 miles; right before the manufacturer's recommendation of 7,500 miles (or right before whatever your car's manufacturer suggests in the manual). But that is just for standard oil. Normal synthetic blends and full synthetics aren't supposed to last longer than normal oil, they are just supposed to lubricate the engine better than normal non-synthetics are. Manufacturers do make oil now that is advertised to last up to 15,000 miles (maybe more since last time I checked). But I drive a performance car and I love it and want it to last a long time, so I change oil around every 3,000 with standard 5w30 Valvoline (I started using Max life synthetic blend at around 70,000 miles). I don't mind spending a little extra for a little insurance. Valvoline tends to look cleaner than other brands when I check how it looks on the dipstick right before I change it. It dosen't turn black as quickly as the others do. 3,000 miles is just an old standby. Today, oil technology has gotten better to the point where oil changes should be done at about 7,000 miles; right before the manufacturer’s recommendation of 7,500 miles (or right before whatever your car’s manufacturer suggests in the manual). But that is just for standard oil. Normal synthetic blends and full synthetics aren’t supposed to last longer than normal oil, they are just supposed to lubricate the engine better than normal non-synthetics are.
Manufacturers do make oil now that is advertised to last up to 15,000 miles (maybe more since last time I checked). But I drive a performance car and I love it and want it to last a long time, so I change oil around every 3,000 with standard 5w30 Valvoline (I started using Max life synthetic blend at around 70,000 miles). I don’t mind spending a little extra for a little insurance. Valvoline tends to look cleaner than other brands when I check how it looks on the dipstick right before I change it.
It dosen’t turn black as quickly as the others do.

]]> By: Charles Peters http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107197 Charles Peters Sun, 02 Dec 2007 22:05:21 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-107197 Nick Roberts is absolutely correct on all counts. I used Amsoil after doing much research and having 4 cars and 2 Harley Davidson's, it qot quite expensive taking my cars to Jiffy Lube so often. I was so impressed with my vehicle performance, I too became a dealer and haven't looked back. Check out syntheticsolution.com and educate yourselves. Synthetics are taking over from the inferior petroleum oils and the petroleum oils will soon go the way of the old 8-track players and bias ply tires, being replaced by better products like CD's, DVD's and Radial tires. With Synthetic oils you can go to extended oil drain schedules and you'll experience more miles to the gallon, easier cold weather starts and almost zero engine wear. Bobby Unser has used Amsoil for years and Boyd Coddington of the hit TV show also endorses Amsoil now. It's sweeping the nation and it's no surprise. And, it's American Made! Having served 21 Years in the Air Force and 36 years total serving my government, I like using "American". Nick Roberts is absolutely correct on all counts. I used Amsoil after doing much research and having 4 cars and 2 Harley Davidson’s, it qot quite expensive taking my cars to Jiffy Lube so often. I was so impressed with my vehicle performance, I too became a dealer and haven’t looked back. Check out syntheticsolution.com and educate yourselves. Synthetics are taking over from the inferior petroleum oils and the petroleum oils will soon go the way of the old 8-track players and bias ply tires, being replaced by better products like CD’s, DVD’s and Radial tires. With Synthetic oils you can go to extended oil drain schedules and you’ll experience more miles to the gallon, easier cold weather starts and almost zero engine wear.
Bobby Unser has used Amsoil for years and Boyd Coddington of the hit TV show also endorses Amsoil now. It’s sweeping the nation and it’s no surprise. And, it’s American Made! Having served 21 Years in the Air Force and 36 years total serving my government, I like using “American”.

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106818 Nick Roberts Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:58:28 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106818 Once again the quick lubes are pulling a fast one. There is no good reason to change the oil at 3000 miles or 90 days except to make the quick lube dealer more money. Switch to a quality extended drain synthetic oil such as Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil and save money. The 90 day scam is based on the idea that an engine produces more contaminants in short trip operation than in long trips because it doesn't get warm enough to fully rid itself of the combustion byproducts such as the water which is introduced into the engine from the atmosphere as the engine takes in combustion air. In reality a quality oil is formulated to neutralize these acids and the oil filter is there to capture the water and also any wear metals that are present. Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils are formulated to protect any engine for 25,000 miles or one year. At a cost of approximately $7.50 per quart, and assuming that the vehicle needs 5 quarts of oil, that is $37.50 for oil and an additional $12.00 (this figure may vary depending on the actual vehicle) for an Amsoil EA Oil Filter that is $49.50 for annual oil service. Contrast that to the quick lube recommendation of changing your oil every 90 days at approximately $30.00 X 4 changes = $120.00 annual oil change cost. As you can see the difference is substantial, over $70.00 annually. In addition the overall wear on the engine is decreased adding longevity and greater fuel economy as well as increased reliability due to better lubrication. Switch to Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils and save money as well as reducing the amount of waste oil that needs to be disposed of. Using the previous example once a year there would be only 5 quarts of waste oil and 1 oil filter annually to dispose of using Amsoil whereas the quick lube scenario adds up to 20 quarts of used oil and 4 oil filters to dispose of. In an age where each action we take has an environmental impact using an extended drain oil such as Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil can reduce your personal contribution to the waste oil stream by at least 75% while at the same time saving you money in oil change costs, improving fuel economy, and freeing you from wasting your precious time sitting in the quick lube at least 3 times a year. For more information on Amsoil Oil and Filtration products please visit my website www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 or drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com. I would be happy to assist you in reducing your annual vehicle maintenance costs while providing superior lubrication which will extend the life of your engine and reduce the chances of mechanical failure due to poor lubrication. Once again the quick lubes are pulling a fast one. There is no good reason to change the oil at 3000 miles or 90 days except to make the quick lube dealer more money.
Switch to a quality extended drain synthetic oil such as Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil and save money. The 90 day scam is based on the idea that an engine produces more contaminants in short trip operation than in long trips because it doesn’t get warm enough to fully rid itself of the combustion byproducts such as the water which is introduced into the engine from the atmosphere as the engine takes in combustion air. In reality a quality oil is formulated to neutralize these acids and the oil filter is there to capture the water and also any wear metals that are present.
Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils are formulated to protect any engine for 25,000 miles or one year. At a cost of approximately $7.50 per quart, and assuming that the vehicle needs 5 quarts of oil, that is $37.50 for oil and an additional $12.00 (this figure may vary depending on the actual vehicle) for an Amsoil EA Oil Filter that is $49.50 for annual oil service. Contrast that to the quick lube recommendation of changing your oil every 90 days at approximately $30.00 X 4 changes = $120.00 annual oil change cost.
As you can see the difference is substantial, over $70.00 annually. In addition the overall wear on the engine is decreased adding longevity and greater fuel economy as well as increased reliability due to better lubrication.
Switch to Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oils and save money as well as reducing the amount of waste oil that needs to be disposed of. Using the previous example once a year there would be only 5 quarts of waste oil and 1 oil filter annually to dispose of using Amsoil whereas the quick lube scenario adds up to 20 quarts of used oil and 4 oil filters to dispose of. In an age where each action we take has an environmental impact using an extended drain oil such as Amsoil Synthetic Motor Oil can reduce your personal contribution to the waste oil stream by at least 75% while at the same time saving you money in oil change costs, improving fuel economy, and freeing you from wasting your precious time sitting in the quick lube at least 3 times a year.
For more information on Amsoil Oil and Filtration products please visit my website http://www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 or drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com. I would be happy to assist you in reducing your annual vehicle maintenance costs while providing superior lubrication which will extend the life of your engine and reduce the chances of mechanical failure due to poor lubrication.

]]> By: Glenda http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106755 Glenda Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:26:27 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106755 Hi there! I, too, am a longtime reader, and I believe this is my first comment. More like a question, actually. My dealer (and Jiffy Lube) leads me to believe that I should change my oil every 3000 miles, or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Since I drive little, the 3 months always come first. WAY first. I probably come in under 2000 in three months... What is your take on this? Should I at least wait 3-5000 miles? Or is there any reason to get an oil change every three months? Hi there!
I, too, am a longtime reader, and I believe this is my first comment.
More like a question, actually. My dealer (and Jiffy Lube) leads me to believe that I should change my oil every 3000 miles, or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Since I drive little, the 3 months always come first. WAY first. I probably come in under 2000 in three months…
What is your take on this? Should I at least wait 3-5000 miles? Or is there any reason to get an oil change every three months?

]]> By: Rob in Madrid http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106502 Rob in Madrid Tue, 27 Nov 2007 20:29:35 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106502 I lived in Germany for 8 yhears and I had an Audi A4 for about 3 of those years and it was due for a "service" (that's a real scam if you ask me - pay extra to get you car checked over) every 30.000 kilometers (20.000 miles) My Mazda needs an oil change every 15.000 k or 10.000 miles. As others pointed out, if the car is in America you change the oil ever 3,000 miles if it's in Europe its every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. And yes they still use miles in the UK I lived in Germany for 8 yhears and I had an Audi A4 for about 3 of those years and it was due for a “service” (that’s a real scam if you ask me - pay extra to get you car checked over) every 30.000 kilometers (20.000 miles) My Mazda needs an oil change every 15.000 k or 10.000 miles. As others pointed out, if the car is in America you change the oil ever 3,000 miles if it’s in Europe its every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.

And yes they still use miles in the UK

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106458 Nick Roberts Tue, 27 Nov 2007 16:15:44 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106458 URL updated The real key to extending oil life is using the best air and oil filters, proper filtration of the air and oil prevent contamination of the oil and reduce engine wear as well as improving the reliability of any engine. I am happy to discuss this with anyone who wants more info, drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 . URL updated
The real key to extending oil life is using the best air and oil filters, proper filtration of the air and oil prevent contamination of the oil and reduce engine wear as well as improving the reliability of any engine. I am happy to discuss this with anyone who wants more info, drop me a line at amsoildealer@mac.com or visit my website http://www.synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 .

]]> By: Nick Roberts http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106453 Nick Roberts Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:57:56 +0000 http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/06/10/is-the-3000-mile-oil-change-a-scam/#comment-106453 The URL I provided in my previous post is incorrect it should be synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 Can you change it? The URL I provided in my previous post is incorrect it should be synthetic-oil-tech.com/1124190 Can you change it?

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