My cars computer says that I have 15% life lift before my next oil change. I have driven over 3000 miles. Should I trust my computer? It is a 05 vehicle driven normally.
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Terry,
I recommend changing the oil; waiting to 0% is not as good as prematurely changing.
Hi Terry,
Some cars computer controls are controlled by you, or the tech that resets the oil life indicator. I would trust your calculations and bring the car in to change the oil. Don*t forget to have your tire pressure checked and if you have not had your tires rotated in a while, do that too.
Best.
Audra (the auto-motivator)
www.whatwomenautoknow.com
audra@greatbearautoshop.com.jpg)
Check your owners manual for when to change the oil according to your type of driving
It*s always a good idea to reference your vehicle*s service manual to see how often the manufacturer recommends you change the oil. Some newer model cars can easily go longer than the traditional 3,000 miles between an oil change but it*s always better to err on the side of safe than sorry when servicing your car. I*ve actually found that the service manager at my dealership will send me home without an oil change if the computer says I still have substantial oil life * even if I*ve driven 3,000 miles or more. My recommendation would be to take it in, especially if you*re planning a long trip in the near future.
Safe driving,
Kristin Brocoff, CarMD.com Corp.
Hello Terry- I would ignore the computer. The best thing anyone can do to assure long engine life is to change oil every 3000 miles regardless of manufacturer recommendations. While modern oil does not break down and form sludge as easily as the lubricants of the past, it still collects abrasive dirt that even the best filters cannot remove all of. Hope this helps thanks Super Girls Auto
Dear Terry,
It's possible that there is a re-set button for that and it wasn't done last time you had an oil change. Check your owner's manual for oil change intervals and stick to that schedule...you should be fine.
You can also contact a dealer to ask their service department if this information has a re-set button that needs to be cleared after an oil service.
Lori Johnson
www.ladiesstartyourengines.com
The computer factors in your driving habits and miles driven, but it doesn't factor in the climate you live in~ I trust mileage not the computer. Here at Community Tire & Auto we have seen cars with 5000 miles on there car and it read 30% left. But, we live in AZ were it is Severe weather....
Terry delong,
The oil life indicator is actually a timer that should be reset at each oil change. It does not indicate the integrity of the oil. Sometimes, technicians forget to reset the indicator. Sometimes, it is accidentally reset while looking at other information. I do recommend that you keep separate information for your oil changes. Also, check your owner*s manual. On newer vehicles, often it is recommended at longer intervals now - sometimes up to every 5,000 miles.
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