Oil’s well, don’t fret long service interval

Modern engines, developed to meet strict emission standards, burn much cleaner than in the past

QUESTION: My Honda CVR has a rather unusual way of identifying when it needs servicing. The “life” of the oil is progressively shown on one of the odometer settings and when it indicates 10 per cent or less it is time for a service – which is identified as an A or B type. My vehicle had 10,000 km on it and I was concerned because most cars require a change of oil at 8,000 km. The service adviser said that I had to wait and to not worry as some Hondas went as long as 17,000 km before requiring service. My vehicle went 13,000 km before it showed 10 per cent life, at which point I had a service done. It presently reads 60 per cent and I have 20,000 km on it so I expect it will be another 6,000 km before an oil change is recommended. What is so special about Honda’s vehicle that the oil does not lose any of its qualities for such an extended period? My driving consists mainly of short trips of about 8 km and I am quite concerned.
- Harold

There is nothing “special” about your Honda in this respect. Modern engines, developed to meet strict emission standards, burn much cleaner than in the past. The latest generation of motor oils is similarly vastly superior to lubricants of days gone by. Another big contributor to extended oil life are fuels that are so much cleaner. Oil refineries are being forced to produce and deliver a much higher grade of gasoline and diesel, not in terms of octane ratings, but with respect to the sulphur and other harmful chemicals. However, you get some credit for the oil-change intervals mentioned. Your average driving cycle is long enough to permit the engine to get up to full operating temperature which “boils off” many of the harmful products captured by the oil as it circulates throughout the engine.

Source;

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/car-tips/maintenance-and-repairs/oils-well-dont-fret-long-service-interval/article1625171/