So I got my oil changed at the dealership today and they put my next one at 5000 miles instead of 3000. Did something change or did they just put in the wrong numbers?

 

That's typical. Newer engine and oil technologies allow for longer periods between oil changes.

 

You will really be blown away when you read Ford's recommended oil change interval in the owners manual.

 

Possible you got the synthetic blend or synthetic oil also. 3000 is on the low end IMO.

 

Read the owners manual. Your engine is suggested for 7,500 oil change intervals on everyday over the counter syn blend oil.

You really need to understand that current formulation of engine lubricants are capable of much longer OCIs than the infamous 3,000 mile media suggested intervals the "Big Oil" manufacturers have brain washed you to believe.

There are oils on the market you can run up to 25,000 miles or one year, whichever occur first. I wish everyone would seriously study about engine lubricants and understand how advertising can be so misleading.

 

My 09 has it listed at 7500 mile intervals. I'm gonna stick with changing it a 5000 though.

 

7500 miles is a normal interval for synthetic blend although many feel it's a tad too long. 5000 miles on blend is a piece of cake. I run full synthetic 8,000-10,000 miles depending on how harsh those miles were.

The answer to your question is yes, that memo came out in the late 80's. Early 90's if you were stuck on a deserted island.

 

and 2000's if you lived in a cave?

 

The oil will last much longer than 7,000-10,000 miles... From what I understand.. it's the Oil Filter that is the limiting factor. If your uncomfortable with a greater-than 3000 mile oil change, find a good filter (I like K&N) to ease your mind. Unless your redlining all the time and autocrossing in Arizona.. 10,000 miles with a good synthetic oil + filter is fine.

 

Actually, the stock Motorcraft filter is a very decent choice for up to the Ford recommended 7500 mile oil change frequency. The OE filter hasn't been tested beyond 7500 miles to my knowledge. And synthetic blends WILL begin to break down after about 6 months and also begin to lose enough of their protective capabilities after about 7000-7500 miles.

To go beyond 7500 miles (and now we're talking full syn), a filter designed for longer life is prudent. I use the Amsoil Ea filter in the Stang and the M1 filter in the SUV (tow vehicle). Both get 8,000-10,000 mile oil/filter changes based on severity of service but I have no problem going beyond the 10,000 mile mark if the oil hasn't seen harsh service and it's still well within the 1 year time frame.

But then, oil change frequencies have been beat to death and it comes down to an individuals personal preference and comfort zone based on how well they educate themselves vs listening to out-of-date information and folklore.