Filling up with a higher grade is usually a waste of money. Engine oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. Although oil companies and quick-lube shops like to promote this idea, it's usually not necessary. Go by the recommended oil-change schedule in your vehicle's owner's manual. Most vehicles driven under normal conditions can go 7,500 miles or more between oil changes.
Some models now come with a monitoring system that alerts the driver when the oil needs changing.
Depending on driving conditions, these can extend change intervals to 10,000 or 15,000 miles. You don't have to worry about replacing tires until they're worn down to the minimum tread depth. But a tire's grip can be compromised well before this mark if you drive in rain, slush, or snow. As the tread wears, it's easier for the tire to hydroplane or lose traction and for the driver to lose control. U.S. Inc. All rights reserved.