The 0W-20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval – All To Know

It would be a crime for drivers undergoing diverse extreme weather conditions NOT to use 0W20.

This synthetic engine oil has been internally recognized for its impeccable flexibility and oil flow that adapt to different climate types!

One important question for beginners, though: What is the 0W-20 synthetic oil change interval? How often should you change it? Trust Bryan’s expert team to give you the answer.

What Does 0W-20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval Mean?

0w-20 synthetic oil change interval
0W-20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval

The term is exactly what it sounds like – referring to the required service intervals where your 0W-20 oil needs to be changed.

For example, a mile interval of 15,000 means you must replace your oil every 15,000 miles. Another illustration is 12-month intervals, implying oil replacements are needed after every 12 months.

We strongly suggest referring to the car manuals for more information and better understanding.

Note that if you use 0W20 for vehicles whose recommended oil is NOT 0W-20, the best bet is to schedule your oil changes based on that oil instead of 0W20.

A more specific explanation may help: suppose you buy 0W20 for 2010 Toyota Corolla cars that use 5W-20 mineral oils.

In that case, you should abide by the required change intervals for 5W-20 (about six months or 5000 miles) even with 0W20 currently inside your fuel tank.

Why Do You Need Frequent 0W-20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval?

Lubricating Your Engine

Imagine all valves, pistons, and engine compartments moving extremely fast under your car hoods. They produce excessive heat that will wear your engine down dramatically without oil lubrication! 

That’s why you must always maintain regular oil change intervals for synthetic oil to ensure the fuel tank is kept at recommended volumes.

Otherwise, your car will suffer from lackluster operations and decreased performance!

Friction and overheating issues are also kept at bay, boosting the car’s overall health better than average.

Removing Sludges and Wear Particles 

Needless to say, dirt and particles are the death of every engine. Failure to tend to them on time may cause corrosion, decreasing the engine’s cycle.

Even worse, old oil will break down over time and grow into “sludge,” destroying the tank in no time! 

Our ultimate goal is always to keep engines clean. Routine full synthetic oil change intervals remove sludges and particles, putting your engine (and car, as a result) at optimal condition.

Improving Gas Mileage

Poor lubrication increases the vehicle’s fuel consumption – all the more reason to always store clean 0W-20 oil in your engine!

According to a study by The American Energy Department, regular and consistent 0W20 oil changes can improve your gas mileage by 1 to 2%.

Sure, that might not sound that impressive at first hearing; but trust us, it can save a whopping gallon of fuel in just one year! 

Promoting Car Longevity

Clear and simple: regular maintenance allows your car to last much longer – for decades even!

Without dirty sludge buildups, the vehicle can enjoy better power, better fuel economy, and less pressure on the internal components!

Not to mention, accidents, collisions, or any road mishap are less likely to happen, cutting down your visits to auto repair shops.

On another note, cars with regular care and long lifespans will have better value during resale times – a great tip to keep in mind for drivers that change cars often! 

Recommended 0W-20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval – How Often Should You Change It?

full synthetic oil change frequency
How Often Oil Change Interval Full Synthetic

Average 0W-20 oil changes fall between 5000 miles and 10,000 miles. However, the range for a full synthetic oil change interval is not exactly the same across car brands and engines. 

Let’s have a look at some of the most famous names on the market: 

Toyota

Toyota cars using 0W20 oils extend the usual recommended intervals to 12 months or 10,000 miles.

However, please do not wait until the 12-month benchmark has passed before checking the vehicle; it would be best to inspect its performance periodically during this time span!

Choosing a high-quality, well-made Toyota also helps widen the gap between two oil changes. Click here to learn which Toyota Venza models to avoid.

An important note: even with a long oil replacement interval, you must still visit the auto shop for other services. Fluid checks, tire rotation, engine cleaning, etc., must be performed on a regular basis.

Hyundai

The estimated full synthetic oil change frequency depends on your purchased models. However, on average, it fluctuates between 7500 and 10000 miles.

Note that your driving habit has significant impacts on the oil change frequencies.

Reflect on your past experience; if your car-control techniques have at least one of the following features, it’s time to schedule your 0W20 replacements more frequently:

  • Commercial use
  • Off-roading
  • Racing on dirt roads
  • Heavy and frequent towing

Plus, keep in mind these extra tips – suggested by none other than Hyundai itself: 

  • Consult the model material to assess which type of oil is suggested for your car: is it synthetic motor oil (like 0W20) or conventional? 0W20 indeed costs more, but at least you won’t have to change it as often as with non-synthetic oil.
  • Even unused oil will break down over time. Suppose your car usage is scarce; the oil must still be replaced every 6 months.
  • A rule of thumb: while you are at it, ask the technician to change the oil filter as well. Hyundai’s parts centers (ex: Hyundai North Freeway) will gladly lend a helping hand in choosing the right oil filters for specific Hyundai vehicles.

Honda

Like Hyundai, the recommended 0W-20 intervals for Honda vary across car models and ages.

For example, new models (after 2008) should change their 0W-20 synthetic oil every six months or 7500 miles.

Meanwhile, older cars (before 2008) were made to work with conventional oil; so even if you use 0W-20 for them, frequent changes every three months or 3000 miles are a must.

You may either change it at home with oil changing kits or have Honda professionals do so for you at their centers or lube shops.

The first option (DIY change kits) is still our ultimate budget-saving choice, particularly for drivers with average oil-changing experience and skills.

Nissan

Nissan oil replacements are required every 7500 to 10,000 miles for modern models (using 0W-20 or other synthetic oils) and 3000 to 5000 miles for conventional models.

These intervals equate to once/twice annually, depending on your used oil. Remember that other driving factors also have a say in the matter:

Your driving frequencies: Frequent driving definitely demands more routine oil changes – twice a year at least.

The vehicle’s manufacturing year: Any year number within the most recent decade means it does not require too-frequent oil replacements.

Meanwhile, old models (most of which are no longer being produced) will need shorter intervals. Consult your manual and confirm this issue with a master technician.

Your driving habit: Ask yourself:

  • Does the Nissan car haul heavy weights?
  • Has it gone off-roading?
  • Do you use Nissan exclusively for commercial purposes? 

An affirmative answer to any question above means your Nissan oil changes must be routinely scheduled.

Subaru

In most cases, the Subaru brand recommends drivers bring their car to auto shops for filter and oil changes when their odometer readings are 6000 miles (or six months have passed since their last oil replacement – whichever arrives first).

However, for the very first oil replacement ever (after you just purchased the car), it would be best to take your Subaru to automobile services a bit earlier.

After the first 5000 miles or five months would be terrific.

FAQs 

oil change intervals for synthetic oil
Questions Of This Problems

How Much Does It Cost for Each 0W20 Synthetic Oil Change Interval? 

Expect to spend about 50.7$ for each change – quite cheap if you ask us, especially when we compare it to the 5W-30 and 5W-40’s 63.75$. 

0W-20 versus 5W-30: Which Is The Better Oil Type? 

Though drivers have diverse opinions, many concur that 0W20 surpasses 5W30 thanks to its excellent viscosity and flow rates.

Does 0W20 Oil Burn Fast?  

No; the only exception is its usage under severe conditions (cold weather below 0°F, for instance).

Conclusion

Our article has discussed all there is to know about the recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil change interval for each car brand, as well as extra tips to determine how often you have to visit a power oil center.

Good luck driving, and write to us if more advice is needed on the full synthetic oil change time!

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