Final answer:
Engine oil should be replaced according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended interval, which is based on time and mileage, to ensure the engine runs effectively and is properly maintained.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to when engine oil should be placed is: a. According to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended interval based on time and mileage, whichever occurs first.
Vehicle manufacturers provide specific recommendations on oil change intervals for their models, which take into account factors such as the type of oil required (conventional, synthetic, or a blend), the average driving conditions, and the engine design. Following these manufacturer guidelines will ensure the engine runs effectively and is properly maintained. Simply relying on a set number of months or miles like every three months or every 3,000 miles may not align well with how the vehicle is used or the type of oil it requires.