Why is it important to regularly change the oil in a Ford Ranger?

I recently bought a Ford Ranger and I'm wondering how often I should change the oil. I've heard that not changing the oil regularly can cause damage to the engine, but I'm not sure how often is considered 'regular'. Can someone explain the importance of changing the oil and give some recommendations for how often I should do it?

Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining the health of your Ford Ranger's engine. Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other particles. This can cause the oil to lose its lubricating properties and lead to increased friction and wear on the engine. I recommend changing the oil every 5,000-7,500 miles to ensure optimal performance.

I've owned a Ford Ranger for over 10 years and I change the oil every 3,000 miles. Some people may argue that this is too often, but I believe it's better to be safe than sorry. Plus, changing the oil yourself is easy and inexpensive.

It's always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals. For the Ford Ranger, that's typically every 7,500-10,000 miles. However, if you regularly tow heavy loads or drive in extreme temperatures, you may want to change the oil more frequently.