Although I would agree that 7,500 is a very lengthy window, the response was kind of harsh.

Btw, the 7,500 oil change window is for NON-severe driving conditions. A lot of folks on the board here use the severe driving condition oil change interval.

 

if you dont even drive 5000 miles a year like alot of people do here, change it with a time period like every 3 month, or every half a year. I only drove 5000 miles a year so i did my 1st oil change @ 5000 miles/1yr

 

The dealer told me first change @5k. 2004, new
After that I change it when she tells me to

 

Ok thanks. Just wondering, I live in the Bay Area near Richmond, where would you recommend taking it too get an oil change? I just dont trust these 10 minute oil changer places... or Big O Tires...??? and dealerships are usually more expensive.. what am I left with? Where do some of you guys get your oil changed, or do you do it yourself?

 

DIY is your friend. If you have a place to do it, there are only minimal tools you'll need to invest in, and there is no better feeling (car wise that is ) than accomplishing good quality maintenance yourself. This way you know which filter was used, if there is a new crush washer, if they used the right type/amount of oil....etc.

There are some folks here (like myself) that offer mobile servicing, however the Bay Area is a little outta my range - haha BTW I lived in Pleasant Hill/Walnut Creek for about 3 years.

-Hockey

 

That's excessive.

 

i change mine when it says 15% or the maint light comes on.. just go of the meter.. it based of rpm, engine temp, and what not.. so your oil changes are not by miles anymore.. its by how you drive.. some times i get around 5000 (daily driven) now its less since i drive alot harder ( weekend car now )