While we could debate endlessly over whether their motivations were monetary or metallurgical, the question of oil change frequency has loomed since Stoopid-Lube invented those little stickers for our windshields. Finally, we're being offered an ounce of clarity for our quarts. Ford recently increased its official service interval between oil changes from 5000 to 7500 miles. You may not consider the Ford Motor Company to be the end-all authority on engine care, but considering how safe they're forced to play things, I consider this announcement a huge stride. Hopefully other auto makers will follow.
Was it a scam all along? No! At least I very seriously doubt it. But the original oil change figures were come up with quite some time ago, and both engines and engine oils have changed for the better since then. Newer oil formulas can reach insane temperatures without breaking down, and the newer detergent additives in oil continue to reduce build-up inside your engine.
It's cause for celebration. Not because we don't want to change our oil, but because now we can wait longer - guilt free - and save money! Now we have to worry about whether to pay extra for synthetic oil or stick with the "dinosaur" oil.
