HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR OIL? ENGINEER & FORMER NISSAN GT-R LEADER EXPLAINS

How often should you change your vehicle's oil? Automotive Engineer David Chao and a former Nissan GT-R engine production leader Takumi Kurosawa explain exactly when to change. The two seasoned experts explain the ideal mileage for an oil change and how to "scale" up or down depending on how long you plan to keep the car. In addition, David and Takumi-san talk about type of oil filter, type of oil, viscosity, and whether to use synthetic or not.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@AutomotivePress]

I apologize for the terrible background noise, as this was taken when Mr. Takumi Kurosawa was available (in the restaurant). Ideally, we would have filmed it in a studio. I will make sure that we create an improved version when I am back in Japan again and have a chance to visit Takumi-san.

[@Stanjara]

Can you ask him what is the best way to break in a new car. Go hard on it full range? Full load or don't... easy... easily mmmm... gently?

[@wleechua1172]

No worries. Still crystal clear. My son is in his 3rd year mechanical engineering and he will surely love to watch this

[@l4iddendragon]

Don't worry about the noise; it only makes your presentation more honest and not self-promotional. Greatly honored to hear you may visit the USA. Salutes and welcome!

[@wleechua1172]

Hi, Would u know what company manufactures Toyota motor oil? Tjank you

[@elayda93]

Thank you for the informative video. I am a new subscriber here. Appreciate videos like this.

[@NorthPaddle]

My daily driver is a 1985 Toyota pickup. When it was new, I changed it every 3000. For the past decade I have changed it every 5000 miles. I change the filter every time. It’s hard to argue with success. I have about 300,000 miles on the stock 22RE engine. I do it myself for about $45.

[@07wrxtr1]

Those motors are the 4 cylinder 2jz of their time!

[@miriamvivo4279]

Same here. Im retired have a 1998 honda prelude with 220,000 miles and a 2006 subaru sti with 143,000 miles . I change every 3000 miles.

[@Studio89Graphic]

@@miriamvivo4279 My Subaru Legacy 1992 ─ still run/driven until it was stolen last month. Japan Made - in some bad odd/Apple mostly can be driven many years with simple Oil Changes. Our Subaru Legacy had the Original Timing-belt on it until we bought a new Timing-belt; The Subaru Tech/Specialist even Laughed and said " OMG the Timing-belt is older than me ─ she was born 1993! 😂 😂

[@07wrxtr1]

@@Bobbyleejoe2556 Yeap! Well - they are making changes as of late that are questionable - just looking at what happened with the tacoma wastegate issues on the turbos.... Other than that I would be all over a toyota/lexus product for a daily!

[@07wrxtr1]

@@Bobbyleejoe2556 Yeap! Wish I kept my 95 SC300.... I was a moron and wanted a wrx.... yes it self destructed!

[@wingrider1004]

I was a Tech for Ford in the 80's...we had Ford engineers come into the dealership to train us periodically. One session was on engine maintenance and covered oil changes. The engineer told us - "Forget mileage and time intervals. Different cars in different environments will tax their oil at different rates depending on the circumstances. You change the oil when it needs to be changed - that could be in a year - it could be in 3 months. Pull the stick, look at it, and check the color. And absolutely change the filter every time." He told us a story about an old guy who had an old Ford car and every month - every month - he took the car to the dealership and had the oil changed. When he finally traded it in, it had many years and many miles on it. Because of the unique circumstances involving the car, Ford had the car brought in and the motor disassembled for analysis. He said despite the years and mileage, the engine was pristine. Today's cars have a unique interplay in the engine with lubrication. It pays to change the oil as needed - not when "recommended."

[@I_know_what_im_talking_about]

😂 this comes from a company who’s name stands for; “Found On Road Dead” 🤣 Oil color doesn’t mean jack squat. It darkens literally instantly from the FIRST heat cycle of the engine. 🤦🏻‍♂️ You don’t need to change your oil every month to have a Pristine Engine. 🤦🏻‍♂️🤨😤😑

[@jeansandmyshirt]

​@@I_know_what_im_talking_aboutI was going to say some found on road dead. Haha

[@spinnetti]

This makes a LOT more sense to me. That's how I do it, but I still don't go super long on changes.

[@browngreen933]

No, Ford means "Fix Or Repair Daily." 😅

[@I_know_what_im_talking_about]

@@spinnetti - you really can’t go very long on the oil with todays highs stress engines. Besides, most “synthetic oil” sold on American store shelves are a Group lll highly processed regular conventional oil and not 100% Lab Made Synthetic, so you can’t really go long on it, regardless of what they tell you. 👍🏼

[@anz388]

This seals the debate for me and closes the chapter once and for all. I cannot thank you enough, David. This was so enlightening and educational at the same time on so many levels. I will be following through on your advice.

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome, and thank you for your comments!

[@sloanclick]

Yep. This is great. As a part of his reasoning, would it be helpful to consider the average amount of miles driven per year in Japan (5,000-10,000 kilometers = 3,000-6,000 miles) vs USA (10,000-15,000 miles = 16,000-24,000 kilometers)? Approximate conversion 5,000 kilometers = apprx 3,000 miles. I would think that this drives the point of changing 2 times per year (winter run and summer run). I have personally averaged 10,000-13,000 miles per year. I also consider engine hours of run time and keep an eye for 150-250 engine hours per oil/ filter change. I have tried to stick with 5,000-7,000 mile/ 6 month oil/ filter change intervals. This does make me want to consider going to 3 times per year/ 3,500-4,500 miles. I have done 5,000 mile oil changes every 6 months and only change the oil filter 1 time per year and results were good with oil analysis.

[@mplslawnguy3389]

@@sloanclick It greatly depends on driving style, but I always change mine in spring and fall, regardless. Winters here are hard, and I’m sure very hard on engines. You generally have more idle time, plus all the cold starts. Full synthetic oil has made cold starts much better than conventional oil did in the past, but it still puts extra wear and tear on all your moving parts.

[@microminiskirt]

@@stendecstretcher5678 What is the oil viscosity in your Corolla/year of Corolla? The new ones use some type of oil I never heard of or see much: 0W-8 and or 0W-16????

[@993mike]

Another factor is time. If you have sports cars that don’t see a lot of miles per year, you still want to change oil annually even if you’ve only driven 1-2K miles in that time.

[@populustremula7496]

I have a 1986 Nissan D21 4WD pickup with a V6 engine. It only has 210,000 miles on it, which isn’t much per year, but it has lived most of its life at an elevation of 9000 feet. That means cold temperatures in the winter and lots of cold starts. I have religiously changed the oil every 2500-3000 miles and it runs like a dream, is a true work horse, and I can still pull mountain passes in 4th gear. I’ve been a big believer in frequent oil changes for fifty years and my personal experience confirms the wisdom of doing it and now this engineer further validates the practice.

[@jimlegalley6656]

I have 2-71 Datsun 521 trucks having one for 46 yrs while the other 28yrs. Owners manual recommends oil changes at 2000 miles. I've been changing about 1250 miles including filter. They use no oil and run great after 53 yrs. Total.investment for both is $2300 usd. Never longed for anything else as they are super economical, easy to repair and highly modifiable still to.this day.

[@adrianw3985]

I agree 100%. I used to work in an automotive machine shop, it's sad to see how many crud filled engines would come in. It's cost very little to change your oil yourself.

[@AndrewMcDonald]

This ^^. When I asked about the longer intervals between oil changes, my mechanic showed me the sludge filled top ends of a couple of Audis he was repairing. Both had under 100k miles. I’ve always done 3k oil changes. It’s like going to the doctor, preventative maintenance is cheaper in the long run.

[@marshmower]

This is what happens when you use a one size fits all approach. I had to get this straight as 5000 miles (conventional) usually lasted me 18 months and the oil was horrible smelling. The oil cap had a thick crusty layer on it. Never listen to someone trying to sell you a new car. They'll say it's 40000 mile oil. "Real high tech stuff son". 3000-4000 works for me or 2 years tops. If I just drove highway I'd still have to check the level. Also, oil should never be like black paint.

[@Studio89Graphic]

@@marshmower On a Subaru, one can change Oil & Filter in less than 20m so I do 3 times a year ─ from a big container of 20 Gallon with Pumps. Cost us about 20-35 Dollars annually and The Engine runs smooth like a 5-year old 1992 Subaru Legacy Model LS. And I washed Air Filter then alternate two of them until I bought new one. TOC including Gasoline was like $20k Fuels and $2k CV-axes and Timing-Belt changes other Parts I changed them myself ... No Teslas could deliver that in Cold Winter Minus 35-40° in January. And I have reduced the Emissions/ Pollution more than any Joke BEV Teslas.

[@18890426]

@@Studio89Graphic What cars do you own?

[@Studio89Graphic]

@@18890426 We/I have 2 Subaru Legacy and an Expensive Peugeot 505 Turbo. And a Camry. All are easy to change Oil. 🛢 🛢

[@NMTRUCKER]

The higher priced synthetic oils generally have a higher “Total Base Number” (TBN). The TBN is the component that neutralizes the acids built up in the engine. They also have a higher detergent package which keeps contaminants suspended in the oil until they can be filtered out. This is especially important for diesel engines.

[@Painting_Inspiration]

Youre an Amsoil guy arent ya? ☺

[@NMTRUCKER]

@@Painting_Inspiration Well I have used AMSOIL products but not exclusively. Currently I am using MOBILE 1 0w-20 ESP X2 for my 2023 GMC SIERRA SLT with the LZ0 3 liter diesel along with an AC DELCO PF 66 oil filter.

[@tedkay1048]

It's Full synthetic for my LBZ (100%; Yes, I support Amsoil, what about it?), or G.F.Y.M.

[@andreroy8141]

​​@@NMTRUCKER I agree with you that the type of oil makes a difference. I not as much as Frequency. I have a daily driver 2002 GMC Envoy. It has 342k miles. I have done 95% of my oil changes. I use a good quality oil. Changed every 7k to 10k miles. The reason I can go that long. Is because it has a extra deep oil pan. It holds 7 quarts of oil and it's a straight inline 6 cylinder.

[@ya472]

@@NMTRUCKER Well, I can't agree to your oil wisdom since you are using 0W20 oil. I switched after 3,000 miles to 5W30 Full Synthetic because of the heat of the turbocharger, considered 'Severe Service'.

[@billknox4121]

Good advice but a clean air filter is also a must

[@sptrader6316]

As a DIY car owner for the past 50+ years, a very important issue is New car oil changes. On a New car, after the 1st 1200 miles or so, I always change the oil & filter to remove any break-in oil and metal particles, during the break-in period. After that, I go with the 3k-4k oil and filter changes. I've Never had an oil related engine problem(30+ cars). My last car, a 1995 Lexus SC300 had over 203k miles and ran like new, when I sold it. (after 20+ year ownership).

[@sergiocorzo8255]

Awesome advice! Thanks David for bringing to your channel such a great engineer!

[@fmtien]

Thank you for taking the time to produce and share this video!

[@marcelpatel9017]

Change oil every 6 months regardless of mileage driven. I drive my 2005 Camry with well north of 350,000 kms. Almost 19 years old & runs like a clock. Take my car twice a year to Toyota - March & September. Toronto, Canada

[@georgedavall9449]

Well, there’s the problem, Youre a Canadian! 🤣 J/K, seriously , great story there hoser

[@allenchitwood493]

It is an honor to meet your friend David. What an amazing car the Nissan GT-R is. My absolute favorite car as is the Lexus GX460 which I am purchasing very soon. What a great video and the oil change advice is worth its weight in gold! Love Castrol and used it for many years! Thank you!

[@gv2949]

haha I have a GX470 and a GTR - its a great combination ;)

[@richh1576]

(Automotive) Mechanical Engineer + Physical Chemist here, with a lot of lubrication (tribology) and advanced filtration sciences experience. I typically get 200-300k miles out of an engine. I agree with cheap oil and change more often. My standard oil change-out is: 1. If driving steady state highway speeds (cruise control on) I change at the OEM manufacturers recommendation - typically 6,000 miles (max). 2. For short interval / stop and go /city driving - change at 3,000 miles (HALF the recommended interval). Is VERY important for engines manufactured after ~2010 - the ones that use 'low tension' piston rings that easily build up carbon, etc., in the piston ring grooves which cause the piston rings to become STUCK and result in catastrophic premature cylinder wall wear. Changing the oil in the LOOSE PISTON RING engines, at HALF the 'recommended interval is suggested, especially for those who drive mostly in 'stop and go / city conditions,. 3. Change the oil at 6-8 months, **regardless of the milage** - oil oxidizes / breaks down when in contact with air.. 4. Always change the filter when changing the oil .... the cleaner the oil, the 'faster' the oil will circulate in the engine and RECIRCULATE/RECYCLE through the oil filter. The faster the oil passes through the filter, the MORE oil is filtered and the faster the particles are removal. Buy 'good' (USA, EU, or Japanese) oil filters, not the bargain brands. Lastly, the total cost of changing oil sooner than later, is vastly cheaper than a replacement engine or a new vehicle.

[@willpeony5534]

Agreed, expensive filters and cheap oil have worked for me.

[@philmonat9352]

Good information. I agree 100%

[@mrsargemeister]

Depends on your driving style and types of miles. Highway, city, long trips vs short. I think 3k is a good interval for japan bc its a smaller country with a more urbanized layout. For the US in more spread out areas i don't see any issue with a 5k interval.

[@tomr1107]

stop being cheap. if you cant afford to change your oil every 3k, take the bus.

[@fzr1000981]

Agree with 5k, UOAs indicate it's fine for street car

[@Studio89Graphic]

@@tomr1107 We understand that some live in a Condo/Apartment Building the changes of Oils on his own would be hard. All Guys who race at the Tracks changed oils after their races and the Friends I knew then was not an Engineer - just a shop Welder Worker knew and did take out the Engine from his race car and Reset the Pistons Rings and of Course New Oil pumped in when the Engine was reinstalled ─ the Shop/ Office that we worked then is a Drilling Services Company ─ so they have all the Tools to haul out Heavy Engines or Oil Tools. Cheers.

[@christians131]

@@tomr1107I mean yeah if you’re driving a car from the 50’s and using oil from the same era😂

[@richtes]

I do @ 5,000 miles. Twice a year for my F150 which gets under 10K miles per year (Mobil 1) and about 5,000 for a Toyota IM which isn’t 5 years old yet but just passed 155K miles. 3,000 miles would be close to monthly.

[@ibrahimqari9189]

Lake Speed JR Can proof this Mr. Takumi is totally right

[@SuperSaqer]

I change my oil every 5,000 KM as per Lexus’ recommendation. He’s speaking facts though. 2 of my relatives are at 500,000 and 750,000 KM on their LX and Land Cruiser respectively and they change every 5K km.

[@nedcramdon1306]

I change my oil every other day. Whether it needs it or not.

[@Qkfltpdls777]

5000km, but how often do you change? Every 6 months or specific interval regardless of mileage?

[@cfm1tim112]

I own a 1993.5 Infiniti G20 with 271,000 miles on it. I have changed the oil every 3k miles since it was new. I recently dropped the oil pan to inspect it expecting to find some sludge, remarkably it was very clean. Also the engine runs great to this day.😊

[@jimlewis2395]

What do you mean "remarkably"??? If you are changing your oil every 3K, of course you wont be finding any sludge lol

[@cfm1tim112]

@@jimlewis2395 31 year old car

[@aidenp5768]

@@jimlewis2395 If you drive 3,000 miles city and lets say drive it less than 10 miles a day and the engine won't find itself in operating temp, and oil changed lets say once a year, its possible to build sludge on that.

[@elizabethwhite4606]

David, thank you and Mr. Kurosawa for discussing this important topic. The oil and filter has always been changed every 3,000 miles in my 4Runners, in addition to following the maintenance schedule.

[@georgesoross6406]

Thank you so much!!! It's hugely important information! !

[@WoodGuy]

I change my oil and filter every 3000 miles. When I bought my new 1992 chevy silverado shortbed truck with a 350 V8, I changed the oil at 500 miles to get rid of any tiny metal splinters that many have ended up in the oil, then every 3000 miles. I still have the truck, it's still in perfect condition, no accidents and no work on the motor, it still runs great with 40 pounds of oil pressure and 180,000 miles. I get asked by strangers regularly if I want to sell my truck. The answer is always no, and always will be. Funny story, I had to replace my air conditioning system recently and the guy I brought it to argued with me when I said, well, I guess after almost 30 years of service, it's due. The mechanic said, no, it's not the original air conditioning system. I said, yes, it is, I said, I should know, I bought the truck new. He was floored, he couldn't believe that the air conditioner lasted almost 30 years without any service being done to it. He said, that's just unheard of. I had him replace everything with original parts and he did a great job.

[@dp1381]

My first vehicle was a ‘99 Silverado 5.3L Vortec. I bought it with 250k miles from the manager of a dealership who used it to tow his boat and took very good care of it. I changed the oil every 3k miles and never had to do any engine work on it. I eventually destroyed the rear end (user error) and retired the truck at 500k miles. Change your oil frequently.

[@edwardmackey747]

Awesome video. I have huge respect for the master engineers in Japan. Thank you.

[@rsbharley4766]

Excellent video with great info and I now know I have been on the right road with my oil changes for years. Thanks for taking the time to share, Cheers

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@danzervos7606]

I usually get between 200,000 miles to 300,000 miles out of a car. I have followed changing the oil every 6000 miles as mfg recommended. I have never had an engine related breakdown due to oil. (belts break, idler pulleys, starters, alternators, freeze plugs etc). I live in a northern climate where salt is heavily used on the roads and the main issue is corrosion from salt.

[@pedrofernandez8729]

Oil is cheap, engines are not.

[@Odat]

Lol I get it but no need to go crazy with it. I have multiple Toyotas and Lexuses that went over 200k miles with 7k oil Change intervals.

[@Idiotsincarshere]

I’ve never stuck with the recommended intervals and never had a problem. I’m at 7500 miles now since last conventional oil change.

[@kalmmonke5037]

@@Odat depends om how much you drive, how fast u drive , how much weight u carrying, if ur changign oi filter etc

[@pedrofernandez8729]

@@Odat When you realize how much a gallon of oil is expected to do inside an engine, you realize that replacing it before it begins to get dirty or diluted is so important. Especially if you have a DGI fuel system.

[@moeanthony9308]

Well said

[@inctru]

I only drive about 3000-3500 miles per year & have my oil/filter service done every 6 months.

[@georgedavall9449]

YOU SHOULD GET AN EV

[@thomaslam6821]

Thanks for another informative video David! 🙏

[@1dash133]

Tip: Turn on the Closed Caption feature to follow the discussion. The written narrative is much easier to follow than trying to listen to the audio feed!

[@DSC800]

It's just amazing that Porsche, with the 997 back in 2005, had a 20,000 mile oil & filter change interval. Before that, with the 996, it was 15k miles as if that was not bad enough. Imagine having oil in such an expensive and troublesome engine for so long.

[@jimlewis2395]

They want to sell you a new car So of course they will tell you to do something that will shorten the life of the engine lol

[@jeffreygrullon2962]

I sometimes went up to 10k miles and often 7k miles but regularly 5k miles on my Toyota Camry. Changed the trans fluid every 60k-80k and it went up to 400k engine and trans. Today I sold it to a family member and it’s still running. Same engine and trans 😊

[@Puggy42069]

What year was it?

[@dennishassler605]

If oil is synthetic, as long as it's clean, you don't have to change it. After 7,500 miles, the oil will be breaking down just a little, but 10,000 miles would be fine as long as it's checked often and remains clean.

[@ceciliaabdalla4954]

What brand oil do you use

[@georgedavall9449]

It seems every Jeff Ive encountered, is a bloody Know it all, crikey!

[@greensoup0407]

Thank you 🙏 this is great advice from an auto legend! Please keep posting great videos

[@rodolfotellos7792]

Thank you for the info. Keep at it. Looking forward for next video

[@2WatchAndComment]

There is one other factor not discussed. You need to change your oil more frequently if you have Direct Injection Engines. The oil gets contaminated sooner. I am not saying change your oil before 3k miles but if you say to yourself I am going to keep the car for 100k miles and think you can get away with 7k mile intervals... think again. Aim for 5k miles. Side note: I think you would be fine if you did it every 4k miles and change the filter each time. I don't like the idea of keeping a filter in for more than 5k miles. Once it gets 'clogged' the bypass kicks in and you are no longer filtering the the oil.

[@engtrax58]

David, as always, great post! Very informative. Thank you so much for your work.👍 I’d appreciate to have an opportunity to meet you someday as I also live in the Vancouver area. Again, thanks for your great videos!

[@paulwharton1850]

Thank you so very much for getting the opinion of someone like Mr. Kurosawa........I had suspected as much - Nothing surprised me about what he recommended. Really appreciate your channel. Many thanks......all the way from London !

[@dein45d]

Again awesome talk! Interesting perspective with how to maximize engine life

[@westfield90]

I purchased my first car about 25 years ago and at that time the recommended oil change frequency was 3000 miles which I followed religiously and that car lasted me 12 years with little to no problems. Since then I’ve noticed manufacturers keep extending the interval from 3k to 5k to now 7k. However I always still change my oil about 4-5k miles based on my experience with my first car.

[@jimlewis2395]

Yeah, manufacturers keep extending that time, because they dont want your car to last, so they can sell you a new one

[@bigboots6114]

@@jimlewis2395 oils are out there to make the changes last longer

[@cursem]

@@jimlewis2395 This is not only because of longer intervals. Cars today are in general designed to be less reliable and overcomplicated. My first brand new car is now 15 years old and 250000km, just running fine. Oil change every 10k km from good brand 5W40 API SN.

[@reallifeengineer7214]

Several more reasons for those longer reco interval: 1) The reco change frequency factors into “how green” the car is. By having artificially longer intervals, the same car is made to look more green on-paper. 2) Cost to maintain/operate. This is required to show on new car sticker. Same idea as #1, just slightly different reason.

[@csjrogerson2377]

@@cursem "Cars today are in general designed to be less reliable and overcomplicated" In general, an utterly ridiculous and uninformed comment. Some manufacturers build their entire reputation on reliability; Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Mazda. Some used to have a reputation for reliability but have lost it due to using cheap or plastic components that do not last; Mercedes, Audi, VW, BMW. Some are just poorly designed from the outset, but they are not designed to be unreliable. My Mazda 2 is 7.5 yrs old and has an O2 sensor replaced out of warranty for free and pair of rear shock absorber end-stops replaced. That's it. Reliability IS designed into the car. Unreliability is not. My first car was 45 years ago. Then if a car lasted 8-10 years it was OK. Now an 8 yr old car with 100,000 miles has got many years ahead of it if properly serviced.

[@mikeellis6220]

Absolutely spot on. I have had numerous vehicles since 1969 (1 222 879km - 763K miles, in 53 years so far) and have always changed my oil as prescribed with the cheapest non synthetic every 5000 Km (+- 3125miles) and never had a problem. Just two examples : Peugeot 404 sold after 300,000Km and a 1.2 litre Toyota Corolla station wagon which had a 4 speed box and a lower range differential than the sedan, making it rev at about 5500 rpm at 120kph which I sold after 46 years and 350 000 km and incidentally cost me 34cents per km (maintenance + purchase price+ petrol +insurance) for the duration I had it . I think a contributing contaminant to any engine degradation is the ingress of petrol into the oil, necessitating in more frequent oil changes than prescribed.

[@chrsshears4528]

I’m ok…with regular oil…cause your changing it so often…synthetic gotten really cheap at Walmart…so I use synthetic…I will say 0/40 synthetic in the winter time is really nice…

[@joethomas6457]

Thank you guys for your advise. Experience is key

[@lanceodell8058]

What an amazing guest! thank you

[@ronl8495]

I use Castrol Edge 0 - W 40 in my 2018 Challenger R/T Scatpack and change oil and filter when my oil gauge tells me I’m at or about 10% life expectancy as recommended by Dodge. 😎 I liked the fact that you mentioned Castrol as well even though they’re not sponsoring you. Well done video gentlemen! 😄

[@ataibsaleem7419]

Euro Castrol is great stuff, I use 5w30 in my G35.

[@capstone9173]

My son’s goal is to graduate with a Mechanical Engineering degree (he is currently in the 10th Grade in High School), move to Japan, and design vehicles for either Toyota or Honda. The Nissan GTR is his dream car. I wish he could meet you two gentlemen.

[@thedon9670]

Mechanical engineering degree is no good. He needs an electrical engineering degree.

[@georgedavall9449]

Nissan QC is in the toilet! Trash

[@Illuminatisevil]

Dude the whole world is going electric 😢

[@georgedavall9449]

@@Illuminatisevil Come on Man!

[@capstone9173]

@@thedon9670 I work for an engineering and manufacturing defense/NASA contractor. A mechanical engineering degree is extremely good and will be for decades to come. The EVs are not succeeding and will not succeed. Take a look at the inventory at dealerships.

[@hassanmuhammad1844]

Thank you for the good advice from the experts...

[@aldomassa7473]

David, I am always very eager to hear your commentary, thanks for sharing great advice ….. Always. Always learning David.

[@garethwest9069]

It appears my instincts were correct. Got sick of being ripped off for basic service so I decided to learn basic mechanics and do many jobs myself; oil, filters, brakes, et al. Oil change every 5-6,000 km with good quality oil. Thanks for this.

[@leneanderthalien]

According to many oil analysis, oil+ filter change all 10 000km (or 1x per year) with full synthetic oil is ennough (insteed of 20000 to 30000km "recommended from the car brands!!!) change more often is oil waste ...on ALL modern engines, you have no choice for another oil type that the recommanded one , example for the Ford ecoboost 5w20 WSS-M2C948-B and not another, using oil without the right specifications did voids garantee in many cars brands!

[@aale7777]

I can attest to this method i have an 2008 Infiniti G37s and change my oil every 3000 miles and im currently at 285k and it still running as smooth as when i first got this car at 25k no sludge leaks. I daily drive my car,yes oil burning is common on these cars so i always check oil level once a week to top off if needed. hopefully may car can last more than 300k+ miles .😊

[@raymondreiff8170]

It will 🇺🇸👍

[@Maroco918]

BG epr flush on your next oil change will help the oil burning if not take care of it completely. Fixed mine and my buddy's 370z oil burning issues

[@Odat]

I have a 2006 Scion XA that has over 240k miles on it and I change the oil every 7k miles. You’re wasting money lol.

[@aale7777]

@@Odat 👍

[@Boobtube.]

do you also change the filter every 3K?

[@soemoethet2916]

Thanks for doing this video! Much appreciated 👏

[@SumitBisht0]

Appreciate and thank you Takumi San for the insight😊

[@pauljanssen7594]

It basically depends on your driving conditions and the varmint you're driving in. Sometimes you go as little as 3000 and you can be up a little bit above 5000. I actually change my oil so much that I change the oil filter every other oil change. And change my tranny oil every 10 to 12 thousand miles. I worked at one shop with a never change rear end oil. They have the 90 weight bucket there since the shop open once I talk to the owner about getting the 90 weight change and all these customers cars we sold a lot of 90 weight gear oil. Even gives the vehicles a little bit better gas mileage with fresh gear oil.

[@mikembz1]

Mr.Takumi i adore you sir Stay healthy and blessed!

[@douglangston]

Thanks so much for doing this video. It`s not often we get to hear from a Bonafide expert. Greatly appreciated.

[@lmstefanini1]

Really good and informative video. Thank you

[@Seaker24]

Great advice! Been doing this since the 70’s and have never had engine issues with any of mt cars. I had a ‘73 240Z and the oil was still honey colored after 3k. That struck me as very unusual. I changed it anyway.

[@icantdance5712]

It shouldn't be honey colored after 3000, If it's pulling out contaminants, it should start looking darker.

[@junokim9216]

It’s good to know you can switch from a viscosity to another from season to season. I will put 0w20 into my odyssey for winter and 5w30 for summer here in Toronto. Thanks

[@Shawn-ky2tw]

@@America1st69 second that. If engine does not call for 0-20, it means it needs a thicker oil when cold (larger tolerances) or vise versa. Specified oil viscosity is part of engine design.

[@rey_at_rsquared]

No need to do that. I took two Odysseys from new to near the 200,000 mile mark and sold both of them still running like new without ever feeling the need to change viscosity from the factory recommendation--living in a northern climate with harsh winter. Removed valve covers and engine was squeaky clean at 180,000. Always followed the recommended viscosity for each and always changed the oil and filter on time. Fortunately, the maintenance minder on Odysseys fluctuates between 6,500-7,500 miles so that helped as well.

[@laryangel4082]

​@@Shawn-ky2twif you change oil extremely frequently, maybe not matter

[@1bozo9]

Great video. I appreciate the tip.

[@wellspj2002]

Thank You. You guys did awesome.

[@3dr14ng4]

Mine is currently a Fors Escape 2012 ZD. After 3 years dealership maintenance, I DIY the oil change and replaced the engine oil with the recommended 5w30 and the oil filter once a year. The cheapest 100% Synthetic I use was the Hyundai Xteer Ultra Protection 100% Synthetic. Still using the car now without any issues with the engine.

[@georgedavall9449]

‘Fors Escape?’ Never heard of that brand? 🧐🙄😂

[@jeffamburgey7485]

I buy the best oil and filters and change every 4000 miles, I always have, and always will. I plan to do the same for the 23 Lexus LX 600 I just bought, cheap insurance on a magnificent and expensive vehicle, I did the same on my 18 LS. Excellent video and interview.

[@FURDOG1961]

Awesome video David!

[@kentoskentos8428]

Another great video. Thanks a lot.

[@ytsux9259]

It really depends on the engine as well. Our Camry has about 250K miles and is still reliable. On average, we've been changing oil and filter every 5-6K miles.

[@Puggy42069]

What year is your car?

[@channeldoesnotexist]

lmao yeah, it's that often for a nissan, for toyotas and hondas they'll be bulletproof at 5k or less

[@MadFox-jr6by]

My coworker has a 2005 Camry 4 cylinder with 402,000 miles, says it's still as reliable as day 1. Toyota engines are some of the best. Transmissions as well.

[@syedatif1674]

What year is your car? I have 120k miles i use pennzoil 0W 20

[@syedatif1674]

I got 2010 camry LE 2.5

[@ronrubicon1593]

This is where I rarely get much agreement from other folks: in my opinion, you should change your own oil, and you should try to perform the oil change where you have plenty of time to let the old oil drain for a couple hours, in order to get every last drop of old sludge out as possible. Sometimes I'll pull my oil plug out, then go mow the lawn or do whatever else needs to be done. I'll come back in 2 or 3 hours and there will still be a slow drip. If you believe the thickest, sludgiest oil is going to take longer to make its way out, then I want to give it plenty of time to make the journey. I want as much old oil out of my truck as I possibly can. And if I have the time and patience to do it, why shouldn't I take my time and let it drip? It can't possibly hurt, and it could possibly help. Maybe 10 minutes is sufficient, but I don't mind waiting.

[@MadFox-jr6by]

Also the engine needs to be warmed up to operating temp before you drain it which gets any sludge or contaminants back into suspension so it can be drained all out.

[@wally7856]

I just replaced my rod bearings and main bearings with the engine still in my truck. Oil was still dripping on my face, on my glasses and in my eyes 2 days after I had the oil pan removed. Also just for kicks (after 3 days of draining) I Shot my air compressor into the send line of my oil cooler and about 4 ounces of oil still came out of the return line. Expect about a half a quart of oil to still be in the engine and cooler lines no matter how long you let it drain or drip.

[@kramelbbiw]

My car has 5.4 litres of oil in, but only ~4.7 comes out when changing the oil and filter. The rest is still in the engine. This means there's little point in getting every last drop (you won't!) but your approach of going away to do something else is a much better use of time than standing there watching it 👍

[@MadFox-jr6by]

Well 0.4 L is probably being held in the filter pleats. Filters absorb and hold a lot of oil. @@kramelbbiw

[@kramelbbiw]

@@MadFox-jr6by The 4.7l includes oil still in the filter. Nissan put 5.4l in at the factory. The manual states the balance is still in the engine 👍

[@darkh2o716]

Great information from a respected source. Thanks

[@pliedtka]

My friend, well his wife actually driving, did half a million km+ on his Odysseys during past two decades. Proper maintenance, frequent oil change (a bit thicker viscosity synthetic LubroMolly, cheap Defense oil filter) was the key for his success in Ottawa's climate. His old TDI Jetta is past 600k km, and we baby it at all since it's our garage's work horse.

[@JRWJ2K]

Thank you for sharing Takumi Kurosawa thoughts about oil changes. I love my vehicles but I don't drive them enough to pass the 3k miles mark a year therefore my personal policy is to change the oil and filter at least once every 11, or 12 months tops.

[@UncleKennysPlace]

I do the same, annual change, due to low miles, and I never drive unless I can get the car thoroughly heated up.

[@marshmower]

​@@UncleKennysPlace that is excellent advice. It staves off some of the oil dilution by condensation. And since cold engines run rich, a cold engine has some chance of oil dilution with gasoline. An engine with some wear is expected to burn at least a tiny bit of oil. The problem is that the oil level may appear normal but it's been replaced by condensation from combustion, deposits and raw fuel. So what I do is change any brown oil or really sour rubbery smelling oil. Especially conventional! But that product has evolved a little...

[@twinentryturbo]

You know your car care!

[@derikdang8829]

Thank you for the valuable tips.

[@duckbizniz663]

Hi David. Thank you and Mr. Kurosawa (GT-R Engine) for your advice on changing motor oil and oil filter. I have a Toyota Camry SE 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine. So I am a pharmacist so I know very little about mechanical engineering. I have been watching some car assembly plants and I am fascinated by 4 stroke cycle engines. I notice that 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines are assembled with more automation. Most major car companies seem to use a lot more automation and fast moving assembly line in putting together 4- and 6-cylinder engines. The 8-cylinder engines are hand assembled by one worker. Everything is assembled by hand, no assembly line, and no automation. Does that make a lot of difference in the way the engine is put together and therefore more reliable in the long run. Or are that 8-cylinder engines more expensive, so they get the red carpet treatment? Are the 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, or 8-cylinder engine more reliable in the long run? Also I noticed a lot of manufacturers use plastic parts on their engines. The intake manifolds are almost completely plastic. Do these plastic parts break down sooner when compared to the older metal carburetors? Or are the newer manifolds just different in design and no longer need a metal housing? I also notice that a lot of higher priced cars seem to use the same amount of plastic parts as the cheaper models? Does it make any detectable difference?

[@opera93]

Thanks, me too:well, COLLEGE OF PHARMACY , **PURDUE, 1970, KAPPA PSI, ETC. !! Actually, lots of Chemistry & Science in Vehicle Maintenance…… Anyways, check fluids, DIY lots of stuff, listen , carefully inspect, replace with Quality stuff…adm, @76 years young, I let my Point S do:@nnual Oil Change(* I install new Purolator BOSS, RIYAL Purple, NAPa Gold/Plat Oil filters ever 3-4 Month(* just because,*& Synthetic (( VALVOLINE , now, was MOBIL 1)),* ,,& WIX, OEM , FILTERS PARTS routinely ……

[@davebrucher2283]

Love to hear his opinion on a pre-ignition electric oil pump to bring operational oil pressure to normal level BEFORE turning the engine over!

[@tonydoggett7627]

Some Komatsu plant equipment have them.

[@BRZtoch]

Thank you very much for this content.

[@jorgesanchezcaracoza360]

Great video! Thanks for the truth! By the way, how frequently should we change transmission oil (automatic)? Thanks once again!!

[@danny1103]

In short: Every 5,000 miles or every 6 months when using synthetic oil and a decent oil filter when mixed with city and highway miles. In certain cases: Every 7,500 or every 9 months given that the car can display oil life % and I have experienced that the oil life goes to 5% after driving for 6,500 miles; or the oil life goes to 5% after 9-12 months of low mileage driving.

[@jamesplotkin4674]

I drive mostly short trips, so I change my oil and filter quarterly. Moisture and acids build up and must be removed to support longevity.

[@johanhermida6505]

Thank you for letting us know the insights of this grand master of engines. ❤

[@originalguy4535]

This is very good information. I have watched so many oil change advise videos, but this is different. I'll follow this advise from now. But except I'll change oil filter every oil change.

[@seumasmackinlay]

Learning from the masters… 🙏

[@markreynolds3850]

I agree, change oil every 3000 miles , good advice.😊👍

[@joselitovalera5661]

Thank you for this important tip.

[@codywy5579]

Thank you David!

[@stevenmckay3688]

My 2005 Chevy Trailblazer has had the oil and filter changed every 6000 miles I use Valvoline Full Synthetic. My engine runs as quietly at 175000 miles as it did when new and doesn't burn or leak any oil.

[@staciecarverd8136]

That's consistent with what I heard a GM engineer told one of the workers there when asked what maintenance routine to follow, the manuals extended interval or a more frequent one. They cited that they'd honor the warranty if done according to the manual; but if you really wanted it to last a long duration without trouble, change it that same as had always been suggest -- every 3k. This is also along the lines of what I tell customers working in a dealership; you never go wrong changing it more often. I will also add that while working in a Nissan dealership I saw a customer who performed their maintenance better than recommended receive a new engine completely free of charge even though out of warranty, Nissan plainly said they went above and beyond to maintain their vehicle, whatever was needed to replace the engine was at no charge.

[@VincentAnthonyE]

Yes i want more content from you both!! Thx!

[@GoutamDAS-ls1wb]

Thanks for this very useful advice. I was wondering what your and Takumi-san opinion/recommendation for adding the MoS2 engine anti-wear additive made by Liqui-Moly. This has worked well for me--the idling noise is a lot less with the additive!

[@zero2three1]

What's often omitted when discussing oil change intervals is that it's a also good time to check other areas durring the process. Especially with higher mileage and bad road conditions. It's very much like going to the dentist every 4-6 months for teeth cleaning.

[@dmystify1381]

yep,preventive maintenance is a key.

[@donbabcock2062]

Dad taught me to do it myself, buy cheap and change often. I get nearly half a million miles, usually sell perfectly good running engines only to get a newer one. It’s all about keeping it clean inside and out.

[@wiskazn]

Awesome! Great info! Thank you!!!

[@Zelectrocutica]

His advice is make sense which is not surprised, he's probably build the engine for his entire life. I would buy a high-quality synthetic oil if i do track often. But for day to day driving, cheap oil do just fine. Thank you so much for this video, i wishes the best for takumi-san.

[@toronado455]

Glad to know a great engineer recommends more frequent changes with less expensive oil rather than using expensive oils and long change intervals! Personally, I never understood that thinking.

[@Jon-O.]

This is because you don't understand good true %100 synthetic oil and are ignorant of quality synthetic media oil filters also oil analysis and how you can get 400,000 miles on a 100% synthetic oil. No full synthetic oil will ever do this with out wearing out or destroying the engine.

[@kurtjammer9568]

He may be an engineer but that'd a joke...I've been a mechanic for 40 years and rebuilt 250 plus engines..only failures I've seen is due to lack of oil or overheating..catastrophic failures due to bad engine design..a good engine design the oil will look like honey between changed and will use little or no oil

[@VAspeed3]

To me it still depends on your driving habits. Mostly long trips extends the useable range to 6, 7, 8000 m I less or more. Turbo shortens it due to the heat when the oil passes through the turbo unit. I drove a Ford Duratech 275,000 miles on a10,000 mile synthetic schedule and it was fine.

[@dmystify1381]

drivn habits & Quality of oil.

[@digitalcamaraderie5685]

That is normal for toyota and honda 300k-400k. Camry can last 500k with ease. Others 200plus mark is something special

[@VAspeed3]

@Digital Camaraderie nearly all brands can do that with proper care. I get 300,000 miles out of Fords and Chevys as well as Japanese cars. Only difference is the Japs are a bit more reliable.

[@Evil_Morty2000]

​@digitalcamaraderie5685 look up a million mile ford crown victoria here on youtube

[@digitalcamaraderie5685]

@VAspeed3 everyone don't do proper care.

[@MrRigoSC]

Worth watching this video twice to really sink in the knowledge of Mr. Kurosawa. I am looking forward to extent the life of my LC 200 series and 95' Corolla wagon manual transmission.

[@jeproks88]

Thank you for that!!!

[@Charkatak]

This seems to be inline with what I am doing with my 2010 Acura RL. I use synthetic blend oil of recommended viscosity and change it every 3k miles. Pretty much have an extra oil change between regular car's suggested oil change interval.

[@coloradoboo1071]

Good info but what are the suggested time intervals for low mileage cars? My wife only puts about 4,000 a year on her Prius but I still change it every 6-months…once it only had 1,300 miles since last change.

[@samtx5518]

Do the same

[@tedrussell902]

Bought a 2000 Toyota Camry new and still have it to this day and so far it has 309,000 miles on it and still going. I changed oil and filter every 3000 miles.

[@johnfranklin5277]

Laxt year I purchased my 1st GDI and TURBO car. Love it. Now using synthetic 0 wt 20 also a 1ST for me. Noticed a slight gas smell on the dipstick at 3000 miles so stick ing with that interval using Castrol Edge.

[@yslee1401]

I totally agree with Takumi. Service interval of 10,000kms/year whichever comes first, i will do a in between oil change at 5,000kms/6 months at home without changing the filter. The log book stamp is important when selling the car

[@dawicked2k8]

lol Takumi is not his name, i dunno why the uploader said Takumi was his name.Takumi translate to "Craftsman", its like a title that you earn in Japan

[@yslee1401]

@@dawicked2k8 agreed. It’s a salutation like Sir. It’s Master Craftsman Kurosawa

[@AutomotivePress]

@@dawicked2k8 His actual name is Takumi Kurosawa - and yes, he is also a master craftman which in Japanese is called Takumi. It's a coincidence believe it or not.

[@dawicked2k8]

@@AutomotivePress oh ok I didn't know that, thanks for clarifying

[@shane6115]

Driving conditions, climate, city driving long distance driving, short distance driving and how hard you drive your car, all these factors come into play on how much you change your oil, so we have to differentiate with every individuals car. I have a Lexus is300h and I live in a city and do 6K a year, so I change yearly with Lexus 0W-20 oil and new filter with every change.

[@robertodavid77]

Thank you sir, for sharing your wisdom.

[@vmiramon69]

Awesome info thank you so much

[@franciscoyu2900]

Very good advice. My 2010 Rav4 (4 Cylinder) was serviced at a toyota dealer every 8000 KM (5000 Miles), the engine lasted only 200,000 Km(about 120000 Miles) before it started giving me trouble. I traded the Rav4 after 13 yrs. Was expecting the engine to last at least 300,000 km.

[@StubProductions]

What kind of trouble? I doubt the oil changes had anything to do with that.

[@jepoydaninja]

@@StubProductions I was thinking the same thing. I have a 2007 Corolla and oil is changed every 5k miles. My corolla now has 260k Miles and the only thing I have done to it is change the o2 sensor and changed all four suspensions. No major maintenance or breakdown to it yet.

[@StubProductions]

@@jepoydaninja 5,000 is a good standard oil change interval. That’s what I use.

[@jimlewis2395]

Moral of the story NEVER get your oil changes done at the dealership They are total thieves and will do something to destroy your car, so they can sell you a new one. Learn how to change your own oil NOT hard

[@sandeepp6300]

I have to agree. I have become suspicious of dealers.

[@coastalbeer]

What's never talked about is the timing of your oil changes. It's now so much the high Temps of summer that matter as much as the lows at night. Because cold starts are affected by the night Temps. So when summer ends consider changing to a thinner oil when night lows get below 40 degrees at night. Adversely, change to a thicker oil in spring when night Temps consistently remain above 40 degrees at night. Hopefully my advice will now save the human race!