Mitsubishi Repair: Oil Change, mile oil change, oil change interval

Question
I am driving an '04 Outlander that I purchased new last Fall.  The service manual indicates that oil changes should be scheduled every 7,500 miles.  This is very different from the usual 3,000 miles that I was taught growing up.  After investigating on the internet, some say that 7,500 is okay, while others say to stick to the 3,000 schedule.  What is your opinion?  
Also, are four-cylinder engines okay for driving on long trips (like 1,000 miles+)?  Or is that too much work for such a small engine?

Thanks for any input,

Jack


Answer
Jack,
I've put in hours and hours of research on engine oils for the past several years.  The days are pretty much over for the routine 3,000 mile oil change.  Newer engines, new motor oils, and newer oil filters all allow you to safely drive your car well beyond the 3,000 mile mark.

Always follow your owners manual recommend oil change interval, specific type of oil, and oil filter type; at least as long as your warranty is in affect.  You want to always keep proof in some way your oil was changed as regularly as your owners manual indicates so you do not void your warranty.  

But once your warranty has passed, you can really get away with going over the 7500 mile limit as shown in your manual.  Top-rated full synthetic oils and high-grade oil filters can even allow your engine to safely travel 10,000-25,000 miles between oil changes.  A full synthetic oil will increase the life of engine, internal engine components, and all the little oil seals in your engine.  High-grade filters will  ensure your engine always receives clean oil.  Though if you plan on sticking with conventional engine oils and filters (which are less expensive), continue with the 7500 mile oil change interval.  You will be more than fine.

Four-cylinder cars are very capable of handling long road trips.  I have friends that travel cross country regularly on their 4-cylinder SUVs and they never have had an engine problem yet.  But like in any car, give your car a quick inspection before any long road trip.  Be sure your tires are properly inflated, all your fluids are at the correct levels, and that even your wiper blades are in good working condition.  You don't want to be driving down the highway in a down pour with high winds and your wipers don't work well.  
Good luck!