Maintaining your car is essential to keeping it running smoothly, and one of the most important aspects of car care is making sure your engine oil is in good condition. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding engine oil, and falling for these myths can cost you time, money, and potential engine damage. In this article, we’ll debunk 11 of the most common oil myths that continue to trap drivers, especially those who aren’t familiar with the inner workings of their car. Don’t let these false beliefs lead to unnecessary expenses or worse, engine problems.
1. You Only Need to Change Oil Every 3,000 Miles
The 3,000-mile oil change has been a part of car culture for decades, but it’s a myth that has long overstayed its welcome. While older cars with conventional oil might have needed more frequent changes, modern vehicles with synthetic oil can go much longer – 5,000 to 7,500 miles is often sufficient. Some high-performance vehicles may even go up to 15,000 miles between oil changes. Check your car’s manual for the recommended oil change interval, and don’t fall for outdated advice that could cost you unnecessary trips to the mechanic.
2. Thicker Oil is Better for Older Engines
It’s common to hear that thicker oil will help prevent leaks in older engines. This advice might seem logical, but in reality, it can do more harm than good. Modern engines have tight tolerances and sophisticated systems that rely on the right oil viscosity. Using oil that’s too thick can reduce oil flow, increase friction, and even lead to engine wear. Instead of opting for thicker oil, choose a high-mileage synthetic oil, which is designed to reduce oil burn-off and protect seals without overcompensating with unnecessary thickness.
3. Synthetic Oil Causes Leaks in Older Engines
One of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil is that it will cause leaks in older engines. This myth dates back to the early days of synthetic oils, but today’s synthetic oils are formulated to be perfectly safe for older vehicles. In fact, synthetic oils flow better, provide superior protection, and resist breakdown under extreme temperatures. If your older car has leaking seals, it’s not because of synthetic oil – it’s likely due to aging seals that would eventually cause leaks, no matter the oil used.
4. You Can Save Money Changing Your Own Oil
Many car owners think that changing their own oil is a great way to save money. While DIY oil changes seem like an easy way to cut costs, it often doesn’t save as much as you’d think. By the time you purchase the oil, oil filter, and any necessary tools like a jack, gloves, and a drain pan, the savings are minimal. Additionally, without the proper equipment and knowledge, you might risk overfilling or underfilling your oil, which could damage your engine. It’s often cheaper and safer to let the professionals handle oil changes, where they can check other important parts like your tires, filters, and fluids as well.
5. You Don’t Need to Change Your Oil Filter Every Time
Some drivers skip the oil filter change during every oil change, thinking they can save money. However, this is a mistake. The oil filter traps contaminants, dirt, and metal particles, and when it becomes clogged, it can’t properly filter the oil anymore. Continuing to use a dirty filter can lead to poor engine lubrication, increasing the risk of wear and engine failure. A clogged filter is like trying to breathe through a scarf – it may work for a while, but eventually, it will limit your engine’s ability to run smoothly. Always replace your oil filter when changing the oil.
6. The Oil Color Indicates Its Quality
It’s a common misconception that dark oil is bad oil. In reality, oil darkens naturally as it collects dirt, soot, and other impurities from the engine. The color of the oil doesn’t necessarily indicate that it’s time for a change. What matters more is the oil’s viscosity and how long it’s been since your last change. If the oil feels too thin or sludgy, it’s time for a change. Otherwise, follow your car’s recommended service intervals and don’t panic just because your oil is a little darker than when it was first poured in.
7. You Need to Use the Manufacturer’s Brand of Oil
Many car owners believe that using the oil brand recommended by their car’s manufacturer is a must. However, the brand name is less important than the oil’s specifications. As long as the oil meets the required API (American Petroleum Institute) and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) ratings, it will perform just as well as the manufacturer-branded oil. In fact, many car manufacturers simply repackage oil from major suppliers. You can save money by choosing a reputable oil brand that meets your car’s required specifications.
8. Adding More Oil is Always Better
Another common myth is that more oil is better for your engine. This could not be further from the truth. Adding too much oil can cause cavitation, where the crankshaft whips the oil into foam, which can no longer lubricate your engine properly. This can result in poor engine performance, increased wear, and possibly engine failure. Always check the oil level with the dipstick and add oil only if necessary, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended oil level.
9. You Should Always Use the Most Expensive Oil
Just because a bottle of oil has a higher price tag doesn’t mean it’s better for your engine. Expensive oils often contain additional additives that may not be necessary for your specific vehicle. While premium oils are great for high-performance or specialized engines, most cars can do perfectly well with regular synthetic or conventional oil, as long as it meets the proper specifications. Save yourself the extra money unless your car’s manual specifically recommends a premium option.
10. You Can’t Switch Back from Synthetic Oil
Some drivers mistakenly believe that once they switch to synthetic oil, they can never go back to conventional oil. This is untrue. You can safely switch from synthetic oil to conventional oil if needed, though it’s recommended that you stick to what’s best for your engine. If your car’s manual recommends synthetic oil, stick with it. However, if you prefer conventional oil and your car allows it, switching between the two won’t cause any harm to your engine.
11. Additives Can Improve Oil Performance
Many mechanics and car owners believe that adding oil additives will improve the performance of your oil, but this is not the case. Modern oils already contain additives that are specifically formulated to reduce wear, fight corrosion, and maintain oil viscosity. Adding aftermarket additives can interfere with the balance of the oil’s additives, leading to poor engine performance and potentially causing more harm than good. Stick with the oil that’s recommended for your vehicle and avoid the temptation to buy “miracle” additives.
Stay Smart About Your Oil Choices
As you can see, there are numerous myths surrounding engine oil, and falling for these can cost you both time and money. The best way to protect your engine and keep your car running smoothly is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil type, change intervals, and necessary maintenance. Whether it’s choosing the right oil, avoiding unnecessary additives, or not overfilling your oil, being an informed driver is key to avoiding these costly oil myths. Keep these myths in mind, and you’ll ensure that your engine stays in great condition for years to come.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.