The 3,000 Mile Oil Change Myth?

Who doesn't change their oil every 3,000 miles these days?  All the major oil change franchises and even the local mechanic place stickers on car windshields reminding drivers when their 3,000 miles are up, and it is time to fork out another 40 bucks or so for a change.  Is this a scam or just good advice to keep engines running smoothly and trouble free?

According to a recent article in the New York Times, this rule of thumb may no longer be necessary for cars manufactured in the past 5 - 7 years due to advances in engine design.  The new rule of thumb might be 5,000 miles for mainly city driving, and 7,500 miles for mainly highway driving.  A word of caution, though, always consult your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.  Jiffy Lube and others have been extremely successful in marketing the 3,000 mile number to their benefit, but consumers may be better served by extended the mileage between oil changes.