How Routine Oil Changes Extend Oil Life and Improve Mileage in Commercial Trucks

When you’re managing a fleet of trucks, every mile counts - literally. It is all dependent on things that are as simple (yet effective) as getting regular oil changes.

At Kooner Fleet Management Solutions, we work with fleet owners & operators every day who just can’t believe how much of a difference a simple oil maintenance interval can produce. When it comes down to it, if you want to spend more long-term or get lower mileage (or worse yet, engine failure), then continue to ignore your preferred oil change interval. 

Let’s discuss why engine oil is the lifeblood of your truck, how we can extend oil life, and how we can maximize every oil change.

Why Oil Changes Matter More Than You Think

Your truck’s engine constantly faces extreme heat, pressure, and friction every time you hit the road. Oil provides lubrication for all of the moving parts, reduces friction, controls engine temperature, and provides transport for debris and contamination.

But sooner or later, even the best oil will fail. Once that happens, the engine now has to work harder, which will reduce:

• Fuel economy

• Engine performance

• Emissions control compliance

• Lifespan of truck

  
  

Allowing old oil to circulate and go unused for too long is like running a marathon in winter boots - it is just not up to the job any longer. To put things into perspective, up to 75% of engine wear happens due to oil-related issues, according to the Machinery Lubrication Institute. And the worst part? Most of it is preventable.

The Effect on Fuel Efficiency

When your engine is properly lubricated, there is no need for the engine to overcompensate, which can lead to better combustion, smoother shifting, and more efficient fuel combustion. If your trucks are not running at peak performance, then it may be time to take a look under the hood.

Did you know that a quality oil can improve fuel economy by 2%–3%, especially on heavy-duty commercial vehicles? Although this may not seem like a significant amount, if you have a fleet, that is still thousands of dollars on an annual basis.

So, How Often Should You Change Oil?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer because it depends on your engine type, oil grade, driving conditions, and load weight. But there are some general guidelines:  

• Older diesel engines: every 8,000–12,000 km

• Newer trucks with synthetic oils: up to 24,000 km

• If you take a lot of short trips and are idling a lot, change it more often

  
  

At Kooner Fleet Management Solutions, we set custom oil change intervals within our Fleet Maintenance and Repair Services based on your routes and operational needs.

Tips to Increase Oil Life (and Save Money)

If you are trying to maximize the life of your oil, here are a couple of best practices that will not change the operational efficiency of your rig:

1. Use the Correct Type of Oil

Not all engines are created the same, and certain engines require a particular grade of oil. Choosing the right oil, whether it's conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic, is a significant factor in your engine performance and the durability of the oil.  

Pro Tip: If you are in a newer commercial truck, run full synthetic oil, as it provides better protection and longer life.

2. Maintain Filter Cleanliness

A filled oil filter means that dirtier oil has been pumping through the engine. Ensure you are replacing oil filters every time the oil is changed and not when they "look bad."

3. Check Oil Levels Between Oil Changes

Remind your drivers to make engine oil checks on a regular basis. Low oil levels can cause overheating and additional wear on the engine, especially on long hauls or in extreme weather.

We also recommend oil level sensors be added to your trucks or equipment across your fleet - it is a small investment that can protect you from major damage to the engine.

4. Look for Warning Signs

Check for any signs that the engine oil is old, including dark or gritty oil, a knocking sound from the engine, lower fuel mileage, or the smell of burning oil. If drivers notice any of these flags, it's likely time to pull in for an oil change.

Positive Fleet-Wide Benefits of Staying on Top of Oil Maintenance

In addition to the protection afforded to your engine, oil changes can create positive value in your entire operation:

• Reduced repair costs: Allows you to avoid more expensive engine work such as seized engines, cracks in pistons, or damage to turbocharger breaches.

• Higher resale value: A well-documented maintenance history increases resale value and lease-end value.

• Lower downtime: Less downtime means you can keep your customers happy.

• More control: By developing a regular oil maintenance program with our fleet management solutions, you can have information and performance data on every truck.

  
  

One of our clients cut emergency service calls by nearly 40% simply because they maintained their scheduled oil changes available through fleet management services.

How Kooner Fleet Management Solutions Has Your Back

At Kooner, we don’t just do oil changes — we build smarter maintenance routines that fit your business. Whether it’s through our Last Mile Maintenance service or full-on Truck and Trailer Repair support, we track oil quality, monitor filters, and help extend the working life of every vehicle you own.

And yes, we keep records. So if you ever need a full maintenance history — for insurance, resale, or compliance — it’s ready when you are.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Smooth, Keep It Moving

Your oil is doing more than you think. A regular oil change isn’t just a quick fix — it’s a long-term investment in your fleet’s health, your drivers’ safety, and your bottom line.

You don’t need to wait for dashboard lights or unusual sounds. A proactive oil strategy, combined with the right fleet maintenance and repair services, helps you stay on the road longer, with fewer surprises.

Ready to streamline your fleet’s maintenance routine?

Let Kooner Fleet Management Solutions take the wheel. We’ll help you track, schedule, and manage oil changes across your entire operation — so your trucks spend less time in the shop and more time on the move. 👉 Get in touch with us today, and let’s build your custom fleet care plan.