Canadian Politics Today

Yes it does. My previous car (a Honda) could go 2000 more between oil changes than my Hyundai.Just out of curiosity, what type of car do you drive?

My estimates for the number of oil changes were based on cars that myself and friends have had, but they have been pretty standard commuter cars.

And its possible for a car to have a timing chain instead of a belt, which in theory lasts longer (but sometimes has both a higher initial cost, and runs a highter risk of catastrophic failure.)

Audi Q5 and yes it does have a timing chain. Whether it's a chain or belt when it fails, if you have an interference engine, valves will hit pistons and it will be very expensive. If you don't have an interference engine, it will just stop with no damage. Unlike belts, chains only have to be replaced when they stretch or start indicating wear. A stretched or worn chain will be noisy. These engines have variable valve timing so I imagine they will also start to run weird. On the other hand, belts are light weight and very quiet but have to be changed at regular intervals. Many racing and diesel engines use gear drives, which are very strong and precise but they are also noisy and can't be used with electronic fuel injection because their harmonics mess with knock sensors. The Cummins diesel in my truck uses gears.

From what I have heard about Hyundai requiring a different service interval for Canadian cars, I think they are gouging owners or looking for a way to deny warranty. There is no severe service schedule for my car and modern synthetic oils should go much longer between changes compared to the old dino oils. VW and Audi engines require particular European spec synthetic oils.

My car came with Audi Care so the first four years were covered. I just had the second service done on my own dime and I can't seem to get out of there for less than $400 but at least they wash and clean the car inside and out. When a big one comes along including plugs etc, I expect it will bight but I shouldn't need plugs for another 60K or so.  If I have a long service, I can schedule a courtesy car. Last year they were out of their regular loaners so they gave me an S5 Cabrio. Zoom zoom.