how often should i change my oil?
 

i recently bought a 2013 mitsubishi outlander sport and the oil it requires is SAE 0W-20. the place i go to tells me to change it every 5,000 miles or could i go longer between changes?

Read your owner's manual. Some of it depends on how you use the car (as well as where you are located). I have a 2011 Outlander and use the same grade of oil. Going 7,500 miles between changes works for me.

i downloaded the manual online since mine didn't come with one. the only thing i see related to the oil is what type to use, it doesn't tell you how many miles before changing. i mostly drive on the highway for work, an hour to get there and an hour back and a little town driving. i always heard if you drive more on the highway the oil lasts longer, but i don't know if that's true.

In my diesel Outlander 2013 2.2DiD, 4WD oil should be changed every 15000km or each 12 month. If car is used in a heavy conditions (off road, too warm, too cold, trailing heavy loads etc) then it will be 7500km or 6 month respectively.

Actually oil change mileage is not in the owner manual but in a service book. For cars sold in EU there is info for both patrol and diesel engines. I could look into my service book and tell you. However, you have Outlander Sport which is sold in US, not EU.

EDIT: I would not recommend to extend mileage between oil changes. Properties and condition of the oil fluid affect the life time of your engine. Oil change is simple if you do it yourself or cheap if you order it. The repair of failed engine or wear out parts is much much more expensive ;-)

kenny if you want to leave no doubt about how long you can go get an oil analysis done.....yes cost a few bucks but gives you a base line for your particular car,oil,climate,driving habits,etc. you may be surprised how long you really can go between changes.

It all depends on how much and at what speed you are driving your vehicle, If i were you i will consult the car mechanic or the car agencies.