crwys

I'm running in a 1999 Lexus ES300 approaching 190k miles.
I've driven 4,500 miles since my last oil change, I always use a new filter and oil, Mobil 1. Which claims 15,000 miles until the next change. I always put premium gas in my car.
I checked my oil today at 4,500 and it still reads dead center between the "too full" and "too low" lines. And it is still a clear golden color.
I've always done my oil changes between 4,000 and 5,000 miles but I've never actually checked my oil before doing so. Until today.
So the big question/debate is. Am I changing my oil too frequently if it is not even going low or changing color?

BDSL

1. You can't determine the life of the oil by its color.
2. Oil change interval is specified in owner's manual. Read it!
3. Follow the owner's manual, not the oil filter manufacturer (i.e. 15k mile oil change)
4. As per the owner's manual, you should check the oil level regularly.,,,

keyframe13

There is not a set number to change the oil. the oil life depends of driving style, region when you life, temperature etc...
Modern cars show you the life of the oil and when to chance based on those parameters. I think it's safe if you change it at 7000 miles but no one can tell you a perfect number.

crwys

None of this information was useful. But thanks

OceanView

I think the posters above you gave good general advice based on limited info.
You seem to not comprehend and ungrateful.
With that kind of attitude your not gonna get people willing to help you out.

artbuc

You are doing exactly the right thing. Keep your OCI at 4-5k. Keep using premium fuel as that will help your oil maintain that nice honey color. Hope you find this info useful. Good-luck.

BDSL

I don't know why it is so hard for you to understand what everyone wrote....
The answer to your question is in post #2.

Fritz330

1. Most free info on the Internet is worth exactly what you pay for it.

2. Can you PROVE (as in something other than an opinion) you're actually getting premium fuel when you pay for premium fuel?

3. Do what gives you a warm fuzzy feeling and ignore all the wannbe experts and naysayers.

artbuc

This brings back memories! When I was a kid (50 years ago), I worked at a Sunoco gas station. The owner was a crook. Late at night after the station closed, he would pump 190 into the 260 tank. My experience there was the beginning of my healthy disrespect for the auto mechanic trade. I feel sorry for those who have to depend entirely on shops to diagnose and repair their vehicles.

awelliott

Sunoco 260? Now that really brings back memories! Sounds like the idiot station owner cut his nose off to spite his face as I bet he didn't have much repeat business for his 260...

artbuc

I have lots of good stories. He used to clean old oil filtesr right on the car with a gas soaked rag. Made them look brand new! One day a business woman (rarity in those days) stopped in. She was in a big hurry and needed her car checked right away. In a couple minutes the boss discovered a spring on the vacuum advance had come loose. He fixed it immediately but told her she had a major problem and would have to leave the car at least overnight while he waited for parts. I never saw the final bill but it was huge. The worst part is the business woman thought my boss was a hero and mechanical genius. She became a steady customer. Go figure.