In the lubricants arena, few topics generate as much interest and debate as engine oil drain intervals. Just how long intervals can be extended, and the resulting impact on lubricant demand, is a strong preoccupation for base oil, additive and engine oil sellers, and for the wholesalers, retailers and installers who deliver lubricants into the hands of consumers. Often, the discussion begins with a look at average drain intervals. For example, in the article "Life in the Fast Oil Change Lane" in the May 2014 Lubes' n 'Greases, Steve Swedberg described how the fast-lube sales channel has performed in the United States over the years. Pointing to survey data from the fast-lube trade publication National Oil & Lube News, the article noted that typical oil change intervals have been extended from their one-time 3,000 miles to their current length of 4,601 miles, and to 5,073 miles for vehicles equipped with an oil life monitor.
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