SL/R230: Oil change intervals?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: West Covina, CA
W221 S600 // R230 SL500 // B8 A4 // JZZ30 SC300
Oil change intervals?
Hey guys. I have an 2003 sl500 and I'm wondering what is the best times to do oil changes. 3k 10k? Miles 3 months or 1 year? I'm hearing different stories so I just want to get it cleared up. Thanks!
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 796
Likes: 0
From: Raleigh NC
2007 E63, 2006 C55
RE: Oil Change
I use Mobil1 0-40 oil and change oil and the oil filter every 6 months, regardless of mileage, in every Benz I have owned. I have an excellent Indy shop, they also give the car a check over for free when changing the oil to ensure everything is in good working order.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 6,171
Likes: 16
300E a couple 1994 w124wagon E320 Wagon/,1971MGB Track/Rally, MG Midget Autocross ,2000 E320 wagon.
Every 10k miles or
as indicated on the fss monitor.
Mobil 1 0w40 syn, fleece filter,reset fss light.
Done
Mobil 1 0w40 syn, fleece filter,reset fss light.
Done
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 2,108
Likes: 7
From: Dix Hills, New York
2012 C250 Coupe
To my knowledge cars in the U.S. don't run on the FSS system, but they use the time/mileage algorithm. Therefore, you should change your oil with Mobil 1 Fully Synthetic 0w-40 every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Also, you must use a OEM Mann Fleece filter.
The 3,000 mile length is for cars that don't use synthetic and have engine not designed for long engine oil life.
Because oil filter is located on the top, the suction method can be done (as the dealer does) through the dipstick tube on your vehicle. If not, then you do it the old fashion way through the drain plug.
When you change your oil, you can't judge by the color of the oil (as synthetics blacken faster because of additives and the black the color means the better the oil is working). Instead judge by the amount of sludge on your fleece oil filter or thickness of the oil. You can also get your oil tested and they will let you know if you should change sooner.
Generally, 1 year or 10,000 miles is safe and good if you don't drive like a track star. Synthetic has even been designed to last for 2 years on low mileage, so 1 year is a bit overkill. If you have been rough, you can do every 7,500 miles, but I wouldn't do it any sooner.
The 3,000 mile length is for cars that don't use synthetic and have engine not designed for long engine oil life.
Because oil filter is located on the top, the suction method can be done (as the dealer does) through the dipstick tube on your vehicle. If not, then you do it the old fashion way through the drain plug.
When you change your oil, you can't judge by the color of the oil (as synthetics blacken faster because of additives and the black the color means the better the oil is working). Instead judge by the amount of sludge on your fleece oil filter or thickness of the oil. You can also get your oil tested and they will let you know if you should change sooner.
Generally, 1 year or 10,000 miles is safe and good if you don't drive like a track star. Synthetic has even been designed to last for 2 years on low mileage, so 1 year is a bit overkill. If you have been rough, you can do every 7,500 miles, but I wouldn't do it any sooner.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
2003 SL 500
I have taken my 2003 SL to two different dealers and both insist that changing my oil more often than every 10,000 miles is a waste of oil and money. I am "old school" and still am not sure that this is the best policy. Comments????
