Most motorists know that getting their car's oil changed on a regular basis is a key component to keeping it on the road as long as possible, but some may be doing so too often. California has launched a campaign to strip the public of the commonly-held belief that they need to go in for the procedure every 3,000 miles, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Since many motorists tend to get their oil changed too many times,  they are not only wasting money but wasting oil as well. The  California Department of Resources, Recycling and Recovery believes that the state's residents go through millions of gallons unnecessarily each year.

Experts say that due to technological advancements in both car engines and the oil itself, motorists can generally get it changed once every 7,500 miles, and in some cases they can wait as long as 10,000 miles. By waiting longer, drivers can take a step toward going green.

"Drivers have a number of ways to reduce the environmental impact of their vehicles, which can also save them money," Don Anair, senior engineer at the Union of Concerned Scientists, told the Times.

The length between oil changes may be longer than in years past, but it does not make it any less important to the health of the vehicle. New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center provides drivers with an easy way to get the procedure done. Located in Jersey City and open to the public, the center offers everything from repairs to regular upkeep.