Since it’s been suggested that oil change intervals beyond 3000 miles are a major contributor to oil filter media deterioration (holes, tears, etc.), let’s look at manufacturers recommended OCIs for late model vehicles. Can we list some specifics? My late model vehicle manufacturer recommended OCIs are:
2002 Ford Ranger
Normal Service 5000 mi, or 6 months (whichever occurs first)
Severe Service** 3000 mi, or 3 months (whichever occurs first)
2001 Chevy Venture
All Service (Engine Oil Monitor), 1 yr. max.
** Ford uses the name "Special Operating Conditions". The following quote is from the owners manual: “If you operate your Ford/Lincoln/Mercury primarily primarily in one of the more demanding ‘Special Operating Conditions’ listed below, you will need to have some items maintained more frequently. If you only occasionally operate your vehicle under these conditions, it is not necessary to perform the additional maintenance.” The bold letter emphasis is theirs, not mine. The following are the Ford Special Operating conditions that require the 3000 mi, 3 month OCI:
1) Towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier.
2) Extensive idling and/or low-speed driving for long distances as in heavy
commercial use such as delivery, taxi, patrol car or livery.
3) Operating in dusty conditions such as unpaved or dusty roads.
4) Use of E-85 fuel 50% of the time or greater (flex fuel vehicles only).
2002 Ford Ranger
Normal Service 5000 mi, or 6 months (whichever occurs first)
Severe Service** 3000 mi, or 3 months (whichever occurs first)
2001 Chevy Venture
All Service (Engine Oil Monitor), 1 yr. max.
** Ford uses the name "Special Operating Conditions". The following quote is from the owners manual: “If you operate your Ford/Lincoln/Mercury primarily primarily in one of the more demanding ‘Special Operating Conditions’ listed below, you will need to have some items maintained more frequently. If you only occasionally operate your vehicle under these conditions, it is not necessary to perform the additional maintenance.” The bold letter emphasis is theirs, not mine. The following are the Ford Special Operating conditions that require the 3000 mi, 3 month OCI:
1) Towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier.
2) Extensive idling and/or low-speed driving for long distances as in heavy
commercial use such as delivery, taxi, patrol car or livery.
3) Operating in dusty conditions such as unpaved or dusty roads.
4) Use of E-85 fuel 50% of the time or greater (flex fuel vehicles only).