Hey everyone, this is my first time going for an oil change, and I’m getting mixed advice on when to do it. I’m currently at 3,890 miles with an oil life of 65%. What’s a good mileage to get it done for a 3-cylinder engine? I don’t mind doing it every 3,000 miles if that’s what keeps this engine running well for a long time. Appreciate the help!
This question pops up all the time! The main reasons to change oil are 1) additives break down over time, and 2) wear on parts adds contaminants.
The car’s oil life meter is pretty advanced, accounting for more than just miles or hours. It factors in temperature, pressure, idling, high RPMs, towing, and even specific driving modes. I get my oil checked by Blackstone Labs every time, and they often say the oil still has life at 45%.
Honestly, trust the oil life meter. It’s smarter than people give it credit for, especially in newer engines.
@Blair
Agree! A solid analysis-based oil change approach. 
@Blair
I think this makes sense if it fits your routine.
@Blair
Well put!
I do mine every 8,000 km or 5,000 miles.
I don’t go past 5k miles, no matter what the car suggests. Remember, manufacturers want to sell service and warranties. Don’t skimp on quality fluids either!
I do 3-5k for engine oil (Sea Foam every 25k), transmission/differential fluid every 40k, brake and power steering every 2 years or 25k, and coolant every 75k.
Might seem a bit much, but I’ve had cars last close to 500k miles, so it’s working for me.
Jo said:
@Sawyer
Are you talking about a Bronco Sport or another car?
Haha, no way! My previous cars hit 450-500k. I’d be amazed if the Bronco Sport made it past 100k without major issues. Not hating, just being realistic.
Haha, yeah, I’m keeping up with recalls and watching out for common issues. Just doing my best with maintenance, warming it up properly, and driving carefully.
@Sawyer
Guess time will tell. Just doing what I can to keep it running.
I bring in my 1.5L Big Bend every 5k. The oil life meter says I can go to 7k, but I don’t wait that long.
I wouldn’t go under 7,500 miles unless the oil life meter drops and the change oil light comes on.
Every 3k miles is a bit much for newer engines. I used to do that on an old Acura, but today’s engines are better with oil life, especially with synthetic oil. Ford Pass app suggests you can go up to 10k, but that feels risky to me. 5k miles is a good middle ground — less than that seems like overkill unless you’re putting on a ton of miles.
Did my first oil change at 1,400 miles, and I’m planning to stick to every 5k going forward. It’s good to clear out any particles from manufacturing early on. But if you’re close to 4k, you’re probably fine.
Where does everyone go for oil changes — dealer or Jiffy Lube?
This is my first new car, and I’m thinking about using the dealership at least for the first few times. Worth it or not?
Spencer said:
Where does everyone go for oil changes — dealer or Jiffy Lube?
This is my first new car, and I’m thinking about using the dealership at least for the first few times. Worth it or not?
If you’re not into doing it yourself, the dealership’s a good bet, especially while you’re under warranty. Keeps a record for any future claims.
Dealerships know the latest procedures and have Ford-trained staff. They’ll also use Motorcraft oil and filters, which Ford engines are tested with.
Spencer said:
Where does everyone go for oil changes — dealer or Jiffy Lube?
This is my first new car, and I’m thinking about using the dealership at least for the first few times. Worth it or not?
Good question!
@Miller
Stick with the dealer, at least until your warranty is up.
Spencer said:
Where does everyone go for oil changes — dealer or Jiffy Lube?
This is my first new car, and I’m thinking about using the dealership at least for the first few times. Worth it or not?
Go with the dealership, especially if you’ve got Ford points to use unless you’ve already spent them on fun add-ons!