Oil Life or miles?
 

I bought a used '06 HCHII, the oil life was 20% so I had the oil cahnged. I have put just over 3,000 miles but my oil life is still at 70%. Should I still change at 3,000 miles or what?

Thanks

Re: Oil Life or miles?
 

I don't have your owners manual in front of me, but my 2004 Honda Element only required every 10,000 for normal use, 5,000 for severe use.

I wouldn't change that oil.

Re: Oil Life or miles?
 

If you're using proper 0W-20 synthetic oil (most of us seem to be using Mobil-1, even though it's a pain in the butt to find), and driving the car on a regular basis, follow the maintenance minder. It will indicate changes as you need them, typically in the 7000-9000mi window. 3000mi oil changes are a relic of days long gone, when dead t-rexes kept our pistons slipping. The only folks who suggest that now are 10-minute change shops and those who drive in extreme conditions which demand frequent changes.

Re: Oil Life or miles?
 

I heard on the radio the other day some guy giving fuel-saving tips. One was to ignore the manual and get oil changes at 3000 miles no matter. What an irresponsible tip. Even if this produced an appreciable improvement in fuel economy over old oil, is it worth $20 or $30? Never mind the waste of oil. What a jerk.

I wish I remembered the guy's name or the radio show so I could write him.

Re: Oil Life or miles?
 

Thanks! I appreciate the info. I am using the Honda 0W-20 syn oil. (I took my car to a Honda dealer and asked for Mobil 1, they told me all they only used the Honda oil in the hybrids-----was a little worried about how much it was going cost, but it was only $26.00, and they got me out in about 40 minutes-----after telling me that there were a couple of cars in front of me and it might take over an hour!)