Things to know about motor oil

Motor oil, and when to change that oil, has long been a point of contention. Many drivers grew up being told that motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. However, that myth has been debunked for many of today’s vehicles, which should come with suggested intervals between oil changes. According to Edmunds.com, in 2010 the average interval for oil changes was 7,800 miles. In addition to changing a car’s motor oil less frequently, there are other things drivers should know about motor oil.

* Oil does not necessarily need to be changed before a long trip. Taking a trip? While it’s good to have your car examined before embarking, if the recommended oil change interval is not up, then you do not need to preemptively change your oil.

* Black oil does not necessitate a change. Conventional wisdom once suggested if the oil on the dipstick is black then it needs to be changed. But nowadays automotive professionals are noting that black oil is doing its job and different additives might be changing the oil’s color.