Extend engine oil change intervals and save money and the environment.

Even though manufacturers are coming with innovations to extend service intervals a lot of debate still revolves around how to extend engine oil change intervals. It’s not that modern engine oils, in particular synthetic motor oils, have a problem in protecting the engine for at least 40,000km’s; Although there are many engine oil change myths regarding this, it’s more in weighing up the operating condition variables.

By way of example; in 1967, oil was changed every 5000Km’s. Now, 15,000 Km’s and even 20,000
Km’s are almost standard. Porsche have been able to extend engine oil change intervals on the 911 to 25,000 Km’s.

How have manufacturers been able to extend engine oil change intervals?

Modern engines rev higher, run hotter and produce more specific power but at the same time they’ve been able to extend engine oil change intervals!

Have OEM’s really changed engine design so dramatically to extend engine oil change intervals; Or have engine lubricants undergone amazing improvements?
 Well, the truth is the improvement has been more gradual and can be attributed to optimised engine design, improved manufacturing processes and materials, and the widespread use of API Group IV and V full synthetic engine oils in more vehicles.

What can you do to extend engine oil change intervals?

Motor oil has a tough time, not only must it keep all the components lubricated, but it must also carry away the heat from the combustion process and friction, while also keeping the inside of the engine clean.

Having said that, the one element that destroys oil the quickest is temperature: Temperature not only affects viscosity (Too thick when the oil’s cold, and too thin when the oil gets hot), but it causes oxidation and depletes sacrificial additives. Both of these conditions result in reduced oil change intervals. Cars subjected to stop start traffic for extended periods are likely to suffer these conditions more frequently.

If possible, choose an alternative route. If not, seriously consider switching to full synthetic engine oil for better service intervals. A quality synthetic lubricant, such as that supplied by Habot Synthetic Lubricants, will extend engine oil change intervals through better oxidation stability because of the fact that the base stock is engineered to withstand elevated temperatures without changing the chemical structure.

Engine service/ oil sensors commonly fitted to many modern cars can also extend engine oil change intervals by optimising the point at which the motor oil needs to be changed. Don’t forget this is not an exact science but merely an indicator.

It’s also important that the air filtration system is regularly maintained. Irrespective of how good a lubricant is, dirt ingress, especially the super hard silica in sand, will wreak havoc and force early engine oil changes. So it’s important to make sure all hose connections are airtight and that filters and cyclotrons are cleaned/ changed at the appropriate times to exclude dirt ingress.

These simple tips will not only extend engine oil change intervals but also ensure consistent performance and extended engine life.