Car oil is a vital component in keeping your engine running smoothly. Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding car oil that can lead to confusion and even harm to your vehicle. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths about car oil and explain why they’re not true.

Myth #1: You should change your car’s oil every 3,000 miles.

This myth has been around for decades, but it’s simply not true for most vehicles on the road today. Modern engines and oils are designed to last longer than they used to, and many automakers now recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

While it’s still important to get your oil changed regularly, following a strict 3,000-mile schedule may be unnecessary and a waste of money. In fact, changing your oil too frequently can actually harm your engine by washing away the protective oil film and leaving metal parts vulnerable to wear and tear.

Myth #2: You can’t mix different types of oil.

This is a common myth that has been around for a long time, but it’s simply not true. In fact, many oil companies now produce multi-grade oils that are designed to work with a variety of different engines and temperatures. As long as the oil meets the specifications outlined in your owner’s manual, you can safely mix different types of oil without any adverse effects.

Of course, it’s always best to stick with the same type of oil if possible, as switching back and forth can lead to confusion and potentially overloading your engine with different types of additives. But if you need to top off your oil and only have a different type on hand, it’s better to add it than to let your engine run low on oil.

Myth #3: You should use thicker oil in hot weather.

While it’s true that thicker oil can help protect your engine in extreme heat, using a heavier weight than recommended in your owner’s manual can actually do more harm than good. Thicker oil can take longer to circulate through your engine, potentially leading to increased wear and tear on your engine’s components.

Instead of using a thicker oil, it’s better to use a high-quality oil that is designed to withstand high temperatures. Look for oils that are rated with a high viscosity index (VI), which means they can maintain their performance even in extreme heat.

Myth #4: Synthetic oil is always better than conventional oil.

While synthetic oil can offer many benefits, including better performance and longer oil change intervals, it’s not always the best option for every vehicle. In fact, many modern engines are designed to work with conventional oil and may not require the added expense of synthetic oil.

Synthetic oil can be more expensive than conventional oil, and it may not provide any additional benefits if your vehicle doesn’t need it. It’s important to consult your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil type and change intervals.

Myth #5: You can tell when your oil needs to be changed by the color.

While it’s true that fresh oil is typically amber-colored, the color of your oil is not a reliable indicator of when it needs to be changed. Over time, oil can become discolored due to contaminants and additives breaking down, but this doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be changed.

The best way to determine when your oil needs to be changed is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations based on time and mileage. It’s also a good idea to regularly check your oil level and quality using a dipstick or oil analysis.

Myth #6: You can’t switch between synthetic and conventional oil.

As we mentioned earlier, it’s not necessary to use synthetic oil in every vehicle. However, if you do decide to switch from conventional to synthetic oil, or vice versa, it’s perfectly safe to do so.

Some engine manufacturers even recommend switching to synthetic oil after a certain number of miles or for certain driving conditions. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the appropriate oil for your vehicle.

It is also important to choose a high-quality engine oil for your vehicle, such as Castrol Engine Oil. Using a trusted brand like Castrol can provide additional protection and performance benefits for your engine. Always make sure to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity and type, and follow the recommended oil change intervals. Regular maintenance and using high-quality products can help extend the life of your vehicle and prevent costly repairs in the future.