Oil Changes?
 

I want to get some insight into the correct mileage on oil changes. Since we use synthetic oil, is it safe to change the oil every 7000 miles or 3000 miles? Ive heard from several people that 7000 should be the correct mileage for synthetic. Im not sure what Mercedes recommends but I am curious. My car seems to be set at 3000 mile intervals.

What would you say in reference to oil changes and type of oil to be used in a 2000 C-280?

Thanks! The Benz I am asking about is a 2008 C350 Sport. Im due for a 40000 mile check on the vehicle. I spoke with the Mercedes service department and i was informed of a thorough checkup at 40000 where all filters are changed, transmission flush, brake system flush and many other checks. All for a pretty hefty price of 1200.00 dollars. Sounds like alot of money but Im sure its worth it. I can get oil changes done at a different service station other than a dealership for half the price. I wanted to be sure how long these intervals would be on a synthetic oil such as Mobil 1 which I plan on using, especially at 120.00 per oil change and the amount of driving I do.

What data do you have to suggest that changing your oil at 7K vs 10K actual increases engine wear?

I understand now, the manufacturer suggests that inerval. I now remember reading the article on how MB completely changed the functioning of the internal combustion engine. Where the my 2005 with 5K service interval doesn't have the superfunctioning keneutor valve that lets it go 10K between service intervals (sarcasm if you didn't pick up on it).
Just playing


Just b/c the manufacturer suggests is doesn't mean its always the right thing to do. I think the 5K interval is a safer and more realistic approach unless you drive a lot of miles. Remember you don't change your synthetic oil b/c the oil itself goes bad, you change it because of the contamination (soot, metal particles, fuel mix, etc.)

Thats just my opinion.

It is an opinion, that is why I prefaced with I think. I prefer to be cautious. Remember I challenged your statement first, and my statements were stated as opinion not fact with the exception of the following.

Contamination is the primary reason we change our oil.


Lets go first with your statment being true. If we change our oil purely b/c of the degradation of the additive package then oil changes would be based on oil manufacture recomendation vs vehicle manufacture. Or do you have scientific data?

We do change our oils because of break down, that is why yearly oil changes are suggested.

Yes, Soot is only one condition to monitor, good observation. That is why I listed multiple conditions, and there are others.