Many drivers still religiously follow the 10,000-km rule for changing engine oil. It’s become an unwritten standard, passed along by mechanics, friends, or car forums. Yet today’s engines and synthetic oils are far more capable than they were twenty years ago. So, does this figure still make sense in 2025? Or is it simply an old habit that doesn’t reflect a vehicle’s real needs?
Where the 6,200-mile rule comes from, and is it still valid?
The 6,200-mile rule didn’t come out of nowhere. In the era of mineral oils and less sophisticated engines, oil wore out quickly. It was common to change it every roughly 3,100 to 4,650 miles. With the arrival of synthetic oils in the 2000s—goods that stand up better to heat and oxidation—intervals were extended to about 6,000 miles, or more.
However, many people still apply this figure by default, without considering the oil type or the vehicle’s specific recommendations. In reality, it’s an average, not a universal truth.
What the manufacturer says: always follow the manual
Every car has its own oil-change needs. The most reliable guide remains the maintenance manual provided by the manufacturer. The recommendations are tailored to the engine, its performance, and the oil that’s specified. Moreover, many newer models come equipped with oil-life monitoring systems that adjust the alert based on actual driving, not just mileage.
These systems analyze data such as engine temperature, trip duration, and loads. On average, the alert occurs between about 8,000 and 13,000 miles, depending on how you drive. Learn more here if you’re looking for reliable parts and tools to fit your maintenance routine.
Mineral, synthetic, long-life oil: each type has its rules
Not all oils are created equal. The type of oil largely determines how often you should replace it. Mineral oils, being less refined, should be changed every roughly 3,100 to 4,350 miles. Semi-synthetics last a bit longer, up to about 4,970 or 5,600 miles.
Fully synthetic oils, meanwhile, offer superior thermal stability and resist oxidation better. They can last between roughly 6,200 and 9,320 miles, and in ideal conditions even longer. Some brands even advertise long-life products designed to go up to about 15,500 miles. But beware: these figures don’t apply to every driver.
City driving, short trips… and are you among the high-risk cases?
Even with top-tier synthetic oil, your driving environment can shorten its life. Short, frequent city trips prevent the engine from reaching its optimum temperature. As a result, moisture and unburned fuel aren’t expelled and instead mingle with the oil.
Cold starts, heavy traffic, dusty roads, or extreme climates also accelerate oil degradation. According to Valvoline, drivers exposed to these “severe conditions” should shorten the oil-change interval by as much as 40% compared with standard guidance. In practical terms, even if your oil is rated for about 9,300 miles, aiming for roughly 5,600 miles may be wiser depending on your daily routine.
What really happens when you postpone the oil change too long
Delaying the oil change may seem harmless. The engine runs, and there’s no warning light… yet the oil can already have lost its properties: lubrication wears off, it collects particles, and it thickens. It then becomes sludge that clogs the engine.
This buildup blocks oil passages, stresses components, and can cause premature wear of rings, camshafts, or bearings. In extreme cases, it’s engine failure—and a hefty bill to go with it.
Even without obvious symptoms, damage accumulates. Excessive consumption, overheating, internal corrosion… Sticking to a maintenance schedule is one of the simplest ways to protect your car’s health.
Change at the right moment: tailor the frequency to your driving
There isn’t a universal frequency. The ideal approach is to tailor it to your driving profile. On the highway, cruising at a steady pace, the oil lasts longer. In urban areas or with aggressive driving, it wears out faster. Some drivers even opt to have their used oil analyzed in a lab to detect early signs of engine wear.
This practice, common among high-mileage or performance vehicles, allows you to lengthen or shorten intervals with safety. Without going that far, consider checking the oil once a month. If it’s very dark, smells burnt, or has a gritty texture, don’t wait for the next mileage milestone.
More than a number: make the right choices for your engine’s health
Changing your oil every 6,214 miles isn’t wrong. But it isn’t necessarily the best solution either. The ideal interval depends on your oil type, your driving, the climate, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some will require changing around 4,345 miles, while others can go up to about 9,320 miles.
The key is to listen to your vehicle. A personalized approach can not only extend the engine’s life but also save you money in the long run. And if you’re looking for other ways to optimize maintenance costs without sacrificing quality, this article from L’Est-Éclair offers practical tips you won’t want to miss.
